FENNING
Fenning
Introduction Fenning is an English surname with its roots in the medieval period. The name is of locational origin, derived from places named Fenning or Fenny in various counties across England.
Etymology The surname Fenning is derived from the Old English word "fenn," meaning a marsh or swamp. This suggests that the bearers of the name may have originally resided near or on a marshy terrain.
Distribution The surname Fenning is primarily found in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions such as London, Essex, and Suffolk. It has also spread to other English-speaking countries as a result of migration.
Notable Individuals The Fenning surname is associated with various notable individuals throughout history, including:
- Mary Fenning (1778–1815), a servant who was accused and convicted of poisoning and later executed.
- George Fenning (1761–1792), a lawyer and philanthropist known for his work in education and social reform.
Coat of Arms The Fenning family may have had a coat of arms granted to them at some point in their history, though the specific design and meaning would vary based on the individual or branch of the family.
Variants Variants of the surname Fenning include Fennin and Phennynge. These variations reflect the diversity of spelling that often occurred before the standardization of English.
Modern Day In contemporary times, individuals bearing the surname Fenning can be found across various professions and industries, contributing to the diverse tapestry of British society. The surname continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a connection to the past while embracing the present.
There are approximately 358 people named Fenning in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Fenning.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Brendan
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Paul
- Philip
- Richard
- Robert
- Simon
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Ann
- Christine
- Diane
- Dorothy
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Kathleen
- Margaret
- Rebecca
- Sarah
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.