GAWN
Gawn
The surname Gawn is of British origin and is classified as a locational surname, deriving from the Middle English word gavel, meaning "triangular piece of land," and subsequently from the Old Norse word galfr, translating to "a piece of the split land." The surname is linked to locations in Lancashire and Yorkshire, reflecting the Viking influence in these regions during ancient times.
The earliest known records of the Gawn surname date back to the early 13th century in Yorkshire, where individuals bearing this name were found to be landowners and farmers. Over time, the Gawn family name spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, owing to factors such as migration, marriage, and conquests.
Throughout history, individuals with the surname Gawn have contributed to various fields, including agriculture, academia, and the military. The name has continued to be passed down through generations, maintaining its presence as a family name in contemporary British society.
The etymology and distribution of the Gawn surname reveal its rich historical background and its significance within the cultural tapestry of Britain. Whether as a testament to ancestral heritage or a symbol of familial pride, the surname Gawn encapsulates a legacy that resonates through the ages.
There are approximately 268 people named Gawn in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Gawn.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Andy
- Angus
- Christopher
- David
- Jonathan
- Justin
- Matthew
- Michael
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- William
Female
- Emma
- Frances
- Joan
- Julia
- Margaret
- Nicola
- Pamela
- Sarah
- Shirley
- Susan
- Valerie
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.