BONNEY
Bonney
Bonney is a surname of English origin, derived from the medieval given name "Bonny," which means 'handsome' or 'pretty' in Middle English. The name is most commonly found in the southern region of England, particularly in the counties of Hampshire and Surrey.
History and Origins
The surname Bonney is believed to have Norman origins, introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is thought to have been used as a nickname for individuals with a pleasant or attractive appearance.
Distribution and Popularity
The surname Bonney is relatively uncommon compared to other British surnames. It is found most frequently in the counties of Hampshire, Surrey, and surrounding areas. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Bonney have spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, establishing a wider presence globally.
Notable Individuals
- Anne Bonny (1702-1782): Anne Bonny was an infamous Irish pirate who operated in the Caribbean during the early 18th century. She is remembered as one of the few female pirates in history.
- Charles Bonney (1815-1897): Charles Bonney was an Australian explorer and pioneer, known for his early expeditions into the unexplored regions of the Australian outback.
- Anthony Bonney (b. 1950): Anthony Bonney is a respected British historian and author, specialising in medieval English literature and culture.
Variants and Derivatives
Variants of the Bonney surname include Bonny, Bonie, and Bonnie. These variations may have evolved over time due to regional accents, dialects, or personal preferences.
Legacy
The surname Bonney continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a link to the ancestral roots and history of families bearing the name. Today, individuals with the surname Bonney can be found across various professions and walks of life, maintaining the legacy of this ancient and distinguished name.
There are approximately 2,070 people named Bonney in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,098th most common surname in Britain. Around 32 in a million people in Britain are named Bonney.
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Anne
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Gemma
- Joanne
- Laura
- Lisa
- Lucy
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.