Gowing

Origin and Meaning: Gowing is an English surname of patronymic origin, derived from the medieval name Gawin, an Old French form of the name Gawain. The name Gawain itself was of Welsh origin, derived from the words "gwalch" meaning hawk, and "gwyn" meaning white or blessed.

Historical Significance: The surname Gowing has been recorded in various regions across England, with notable concentrations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Lincolnshire. The name has ancient roots in the British Isles, and individuals bearing the surname Gowing have been prominent in British history.

Notable Individuals:

  • Elizabeth Gowing: A contemporary British author and humanitarian, known for her works focusing on Balkan history and culture.
  • George Gowing: A renowned British botanist and horticulturist who made significant contributions to the study of plant life in the 19th century.

Distribution and Frequency: The surname Gowing remains relatively uncommon compared to more widespread English surnames. It is primarily found in pockets across various counties in England, particularly in East Anglia.

Coat of Arms: The Gowing family coat of arms typically features heraldic elements such as hawks, shields, or other symbols denoting courage, nobility, or loyalty, reflecting the ancestral roots and values associated with the surname.

Modern Significance: Today, individuals with the surname Gowing can be found in diverse professions and fields, contributing to the rich tapestry of British society. The name serves as a reminder of the historical and cultural heritage of the British Isles, continuing to be passed down through generations.

There are approximately 1,561 people named Gowing in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,199th most common surname in Britain. Around 24 in a million people in Britain are named Gowing.

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
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Charlotte
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Joanne
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Sharon

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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