Surname Howling - Meaning and Origin

Howling: What does the surname Howling mean?

The last name “Howling” is of English origin, and is found primarily in England, Ireland, and Scotland. It is likely derived from the Old English word “hāwing”, which referred to a place of shelter or a shieling. Alternatively, it may have originated from an old English personal name beginning with the elements “hāwel” or “hāwa”.

In English folklore, howling was often associated with witchcraft and other supernatural activities, and the last name Howling may once have been attributed to people who practised or were suspected of such activities. ‘Howling’ could also refer to an individual’s distinctive voice or temperament, indicating a person with an intense, emotional connection to the land.

More recently, ‘Howling’ serves as a metaphor for someone’s unrestrained joy, howling either out of their own joy or as part of group festivities. It can describe a celebratory act or a way of expressing solidarity and communal strength.

As such, the last name Howling might symbolize someone’s ancient connection to a home or a special place, it might communicate a love of the land, spiritual practices, revelries, or simply suggest that someone is a loud and joyous person.

Howling: Where does the name Howling come from?

The last name Howling is most commonly seen today in England and Wales. Within those two countries, most people with this name are located in the south and the Midlands.

In terms of its origin, the name Howling first appears in Europe during the late Middle Ages in both English and Scandinavian countries. In Norman England, it first appears as Houlin and Houlines, and then later appears in English documents as Huling, Howlyn, and Howling. In Scandinavian countries, the surname is found in Denmark, Norway and Sweden, and is derived from the word "Hulde," meaning to cover.

In modern Britain, the most influential Howling family is the aristocratic Howling family of Packington Hall, Warwickshire, who have been traced back to the 13th century. The family motto is "I will be heard" which reflects their spirited past of fighting for freedom and justice.

Today, there are roughly 5,000 people in Britain and Wales who bear the surname Howling. Its most famous bearer is the British actor Timothy Howling, who has appeared in notable films such as John Wick and War Machine.

Variations of the surname Howling

The surname Howling is historically derived from the Middle English “houling” and Old English “hohlian,” with the meaning of “howl.” Variants of this surname are Houlen, Huling, Howell, Howlan, Howley, Houlland, and Houlling. Spelling variations may include Howeling, Howiling, Houlane, Houallin, Houelin, Houling, and more.

Surnames of the same origin are Houllanski, Houlland, Houllands, Houllier, Howalan, Howaland, Howeland, Howil, Howill, and Howle. Many of these names are closely related to the more common surnames of Howes, Howse, Houx, and Houle.

Howling is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the midwest and southern states, as well as in Canada. It is also known in Australia, where it is spelled as Houlang or Houlen. In Germany, it is spelled as Holling or Hollung. The Irish variant of the name is Howelin.

Many of the branches of the Howling family are noted for their contributions to society. Examples of Howling family accomplishments include scientists, military personnel, and clergy.

The surname Howling is also associated with notable individuals such as athletes, authors, actors, poets, musicians, and politicians. Some examples are broadcaster Emily Howell (also known as Emily Howling), musician Alfie Howling, and poet Kate Howling.

Famous people with the name Howling

• Markem Howling: former professional rugby player and Warriors rugby league player.
• Solomon Howling: former American professional basketball player and current coach at Stephen F. Austin University.
• Robert Howling: former professional Canadian football player.
• Eric Howling: Canadian actor and painter.
• Lucia Howling: Canadian-born artist and published author.
• James Howling: Motorcycle enthusiast and former BBC presenter.
• Tyson Howling: Canadian professional racecar driver.
• Monica Howling: Canadian artist.
• Levi Howling: Canadian singer-songwriter and recording artist.
• Hayden Howling: British singer-songwriter and musician.
• Rory Howling: British actor and writer.
• Paul Howling: British composer, record producer, and guitarist.
• Simon Howling: British musician, singer-songwriter, and producer.
• Julian Howling: English graphic designer, art director, and journalist.
• Louisa Howling: British entrepreneur and digital marketing specialist.

Other surnames

Howlin