CANNING

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Canning

Canning is a surname of English origin, predominantly found in the British Isles. The name is derived from the Old English personal name “Can(n)a,” which in turn was possibly influenced by the Celtic word for "white" or "bright." The surname Canning is classified as being of nickname origin, from a personal characteristic attributed to an ancestor of fair or bright complexion.

The Canning surname has been traced back to medieval times, with early recordings dating back to the 13th century. Notable bearers of the surname include George Canning (1770–1827), a prominent British statesman and Prime Minister, known for his eloquence and diplomacy.

In more recent times, the name Canning can be found across the United Kingdom and in regions of the Commonwealth such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, often as a result of migration and settlement. Variations of the surname may include Cannings, Cannin, and Cannan.

The Canning family crest features a shield with symbols that typically represent strength, courage, or loyalty. The surname Canning continues to be widely present in contemporary society, embodying a rich history and heritage within the British Isles and beyond.

There are approximately 5,712 people named Canning in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,659th most common surname in Britain. Around 88 in a million people in Britain are named Canning.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

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
Mark
Michael
Paul
Peter
Thomas
William

Female

Angela
Anne
Catherine
Elizabeth
Helen
Margaret
Mary
Nicola
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.