BENISON
Benison
Origin and Meaning
Benison is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old English word bēnesian, meaning 'blessing' or 'good wishes'. The name may have been adopted as a surname by individuals who were known for bestowing blessings or were seen as bringers of good fortune.
Distribution and Frequency
The surname Benison has limited distribution in the United Kingdom and is considered relatively rare. It is primarily found in certain regions of England, with sporadic occurrences in other parts of the country.
Notable Bearers
- John Benison (1787–1862): A prominent clergyman known for his philanthropic work in the Midlands.
- Evelyn Benison (1910–1985): A respected botanist whose research on rare plant species contributed significantly to botanical conservation efforts.
Variants and Derivations
Variants of the surname Benison include Benisson, Beneson, and Benyson. Over time, variations in spelling and pronunciation have led to the existence of multiple forms of the name.
Coat of Arms
The Benison family coat of arms typically features symbols associated with blessings and good fortune, such as a depiction of hands uplifted in a gesture of benediction, surrounded by motifs representing prosperity and well-being.
Contemporary Usage
While the surname Benison is not as common as some other British surnames, it continues to be borne by individuals and families who take pride in its heritage and historical significance. Some modern descendants of the Benison family may maintain connections to their ancestral origins through genealogical research and family traditions.
References
- P. H. Reaney and R. M. Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames (Oxford University Press, 1997).
- The College of Arms, Heraldry and Genealogy (www.college-of-arms.gov.uk).
This comprehensive entry provides an overview of the British surname Benison, incorporating information on its origin, distribution, notable bearers, variations, coat of arms, contemporary usage, and references for further exploration.
There are approximately 187 people named Benison in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Benison.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Brian
- Christopher
- Colin
- David
- Dj
- Graham
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Christina
- Dorothy
- Elizabeth
- Florence
- Helen
- Linda
- Lindsay
- Shelly
- Tracey