Surname Horning - Meaning and Origin

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Z. Horning

Horning: What does the surname Horning mean?

The surname Horning is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is derived from the Old English word "horn," which means a horn or an outlying nook of land. The name could have been topographic and given to someone who lived at a place that was referred to as a "horning," a bend or corner of a river or road. Alternatively, it could also have been a trade name for a hornblower, or potentially given to a person who was known for their strength and hardiness, much like the horn of an animal. Since surnames often originated from descriptions of people's occupations, locations, or characteristics, the specific meaning can sometimes be difficult to trace due to various interpretations and evolutions throughout history. Therefore, Horning can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it was used originally.

Horning: Where does the name Horning come from?

The surname Horning is said to be of English origin, sourced from a place named as such in Norfolk. The name is believed to be derived from the Old English word 'Horningas', meaning 'people living on a horn-shaped piece of land'. It's worth mentioning that there are also places named Horning in Denmark, and this could provide a Scandinavian origin as well.

Today, Horning is found most frequently in the United States, particularly in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan. It is also fairly common in Canada, particularly in Ontario. Besides North America and the UK, the last name Horning can also be found in smaller numbers in Australia, Germany, and South Africa, although it remains less common in those locations. Proportions are based on sheer numbers, so variations can change depending on population density in those areas.

Variations of the surname Horning

The surname Horning might have different derivations, hence it has several variants and related surnames. Some variations may include Horner, Horn, Hornung, Hoerning, and Hurning. Phonetic changes over time and the influence of different languages have led to the creation of different spellings like Horningen, Horniger, or Hoerninger, among others.

It's also important to note that surnames were often adapted based on the profession or location of an individual. The surname Horning might have been derived from the Middle English term for someone who makes or sells small articles made of horn, or someone who plays a horn - a Horner. In Germany, similar occupational names like Hornung (the one who is working with horn) were used.

Moreover, the surname might be geographical. For example, there is a village called Horning in Norfolk, England. People who originally hailed from this location might have taken the village name as their surname. Such geographical surname variants may include Von Horning or Van Horning.

These should however be researched individually for accuracy as regional variations, cultural influences and historical migrations could contribute to further variations or derivations.

Famous people with the name Horning

• Chris Horning: American professional golfer.
• Jay Horning: South African cricketer
• Bret Horning: former American baseball player
• Dick Horning: retired American professional basketball player
• Eric Horning: German professional football player
• Mark Horning: Olympic athlete from the United States who competed in the 400 m
• Robbie Horning: Australian football player
• Harri Horning: German astronomer
• Dean Horning: American architect
• Josephine Horning: American actress who appeared in several films and television shows.

Other surnames

HornickHornik