Fernihough

Origin and Meaning: The surname Fernihough is of English origin and is believed to be locational, deriving from the village of Fernihough in Staffordshire, England. The name is thought to be a combination of the Old English words "fearn," meaning fern, and "hoh," meaning ridge or hill. Therefore, the surname likely denoted someone who lived by a fern-covered hill.

Early Recordings: The earliest recorded instance of the surname Fernihough dates back to the early 17th century in Staffordshire. Over the centuries, the name has spread to various regions in the United Kingdom.

Variants: Variants of the surname Fernihough include Fearnhough, Fearnehough, and Furnihough. These variations may have arisen due to dialectal differences and the phonetic evolution of the name over time.

Notable Individuals: One notable individual with the surname Fernihough is John Fernihough, known for his contributions to the field of Victorian literature. His works have been highly regarded for their insights into the social and cultural aspects of the period.

Present-day Distribution: While the surname Fernihough may not be as common as some other British surnames, individuals bearing this name can still be found across various regions of the United Kingdom. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving its historical and regional significance.

In conclusion, the surname Fernihough has its roots in a specific geographical location in Staffordshire and has a long-standing presence in British history. Its etymology provides insight into the natural environment of the area and offers a glimpse into the ancestral heritage of those who bear the name.

There are approximately 304 people named Fernihough in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Fernihough.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Charles
  • David
  • Dean
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Paul
  • Richard

Female

  • Amanda
  • Claire
  • Johanna
  • Julie
  • Patricia
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Shirley
  • Susan
  • Sylvia

Similar and related surnames

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

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