Bonell

Origin: Bonell is a surname of Norman-French origin, introduced into Britain after the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is derived from the Old French word "bon" meaning "good" or "kind".

History: The Bonell surname has a long history in Britain, with records dating back to the medieval period. The name was prominent among the Norman nobility and spread throughout the country over the centuries. It can be found in various regions of the UK, with concentrations in areas historically associated with Norman settlement.

Notable individuals:

  • Sir Edward Bonell: A 19th-century British diplomat known for his service in various European capitals.
  • Emily Bonell: A renowned botanist and explorer who conducted expeditions in Africa during the Victorian era.

Coat of Arms: The Bonell family crest features symbols associated with honour, wisdom, and strength. It typically includes a shield adorned with heraldic imagery such as lions, fleurs-de-lis, or other traditional motifs.

Modern Distribution: Today, the Bonell surname can be found across the UK, with a sizeable presence in regions such as Kent, Sussex, and Yorkshire. The name continues to be passed down through generations, contributing to its enduring legacy in British society.

Variants: Variants of the Bonell surname include Bonelle, Bonnell, and Bonnall, reflecting the evolution of the name over time and regional variations in spelling.

References:

  • The Surnames of Britain: A Concise Encyclopaedia by P. H. Reaney
  • A Dictionary of English Surnames by P. H. Reaney and R. M. Wilson

There are approximately 316 people named Bonell in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Bonell.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Adam
  • Christopher
  • David
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Kyle
  • Matthew
  • Michael
  • Nicholas
  • Paul
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Simon
  • Steven
  • Stuart

Female

  • Ana
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Emma
  • Frances
  • Jane
  • Jean
  • Margaret
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.