Surname Strayhorn - Meaning and Origin
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Strayhorn: What does the surname Strayhorn mean?
The last name Strayhorn is derived from the Middle English words, "stray" and "horn". The word "stray" means to wander, to be lost, and to depart from a group or path. The word "horn" has multiple meanings in this context, from suggesting strength or power, to being a reference to musical instruments. Taken together, the name may mean one who is strong-willed and independent, or who follows their own path or musical ambition.
The Strayhorn surname also has a long history, appearing in early records in the United Kingdom as far back as the 1500s. Over time, it spread to other parts of the world and can now be found in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and elsewhere.
The Strayhorn family has been associated with many influential figures throughout history, from military generals to presidents to distinguished musicians. A famous example is American jazz composer Billy Strayhorn, the pianist and arranger behind nearly countless timeless jazz standards, including "Take the 'A' Train" and "Lush Life".
Given its importance to history and its diverse yet unique meaning, the surname Strayhorn can be seen as a symbol of strength, independence, and resilience — traits that undoubtedly endure from one generation to the next.
Order DNA origin analysisStrayhorn: Where does the name Strayhorn come from?
The last name Strayhorn is most common in the United States, where it ranks as the 1,718th most common surname. It is especially prevalent in several Southeastern states such as Mississippi and North Carolina, as well as Tennessee, South Carolina, and Georgia.
Within the US, Strayhorn is more likely to be found in rural or suburban areas, rather than urban centers. This tendency likely reflects its roots in the post-Civil War South, when many families relocated from small towns to nearby farms and worked in agriculture.
A significant proportion of Strayhorns can also be found in the United Kingdom, particularly in Lancashire and Yorkshire. This connection likely stems from the mass emigration of English people to the US in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Today, the Strayhorn family name is spread widely throughout the US and the UK. It is also found in other English-speaking countries, such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Its members boast a uniquely rich lineage, having descended from an eclectic mix of English and Scots-Irish forebears.
Variations of the surname Strayhorn
The surname Strayhorn is most commonly found in the United States and England. The origins of this surname are unclear, but it is believed to be of either English or Scottish descent.
Variant forms of the surname Strayhorn are Strachan, Straghan, Strachain, Stranahan, Trachan, and Strachorn. These surnames are mostly used as alternate spellings of the same name.
In England, the surname Strayhorn is sometimes found spelled as “Strayhorne.” It is also sometimes found as "Straham" or "Strahom." In Scotland, the surname is sometimes spelled as "Straighorn" or "Straighan."
In the United States, the surname Strayhorn is sometimes found spelled as Strachan or Straghan. It is also sometimes found as "Stranahan," "Straharn," and "Strawhorn."
Variants of the surname Strayhorn that have developed in other countries include "Strackan" in Germany, "Strassan" in France, "Stratico" in Italy, "Strapez" in Poland, and "Strafegio" in Spain.
In some cases, the surname Strayhorn has been corrupted into other surnames, such as “Strayer,” “Strayser,” “Stryker” and “Stryver.” It is also sometimes found as "Streiner," "Streiter," "Streib," "Strasser" and "Stransky.”
Famous people with the name Strayhorn
- Billy Strayhorn: American composer and pianist best known for his collaborative work with jazz musician Duke Ellington.
- Clyde Strayhorn: American blues and jazz pianist.
- Jimmy Strayhorn: American jazz pianist, composer, and arranger who was a major figure in the development of jazz piano.
- Ted Strayhorn: American jazz vibraphonist, composer, and arranger notable for his contributions to contemporary jazz.
- Malcolm Strayhorn: American jazz double-bassist associated with the jazz advancements of the 1950s.
- Cecil Strayhorn: American jazz double-bassist who compiled a catalog of compositions.
- Christian Strayhorn: American jazz musician, saxophonist, composer, and arranger who was active in the Chicago jazz scene from the 1960s onward.
- Nathan Strayhorn: American jazz pianist and composer who maintained a successful career in the late 1950s and 1960s.
- Ella Strayhorn: American jazz singer who was active in the early 1950s and was known for incorporating gospel influences into her performances.
- Joanne Strayhorn: American jazz vocalist who worked with numerous big bands during the mid-1970s.