Harvell

Harvell is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name Hereweald, which translates to "army ruler." The surname is mainly found in the southern region of England, particularly in counties such as Hampshire and Wiltshire.

Origins

The Harvell surname can be traced back to the medieval period, with records dating as far back as the 13th century. The name was originally used as a patronymic to denote the descendants or relatives of an individual named Hereweald. Over time, this evolved into a hereditary surname passed down through generations.

Distribution and Variants

The Harvell surname is relatively rare and is most commonly found in specific regions of England. Variants of the name that have emerged over time include Harval, Harvill, Harville, and Hervil. These variants often stem from phonetic or regional differences in pronunciation.

Notable Individuals

Throughout history, several individuals bearing the Harvell surname have made notable contributions in various fields. These include but are not limited to:

  • John Harvell (b. 1945): Acclaimed British artist known for his abstract paintings.
  • Sarah Harvell (b. 1980): Noted author and historian specializing in medieval English literature.

Modern Significance

In contemporary times, individuals with the Harvell surname continue to carry on the legacy of their ancestors. The surname serves as a link to the rich history and heritage of England, reflecting the enduring traditions and cultures of the country.

Overall, the Harvell surname holds a distinctive place in British genealogy and serves as a testament to the enduring nature of family names in English society.

There are approximately 223 people named Harvell in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Harvell.

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
  • Anthony
  • Brian
  • Christopher
  • Jason
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Matthew
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Simon
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alexandra
  • Alison
  • Amanda
  • Clare
  • Denise
  • Jane
  • Janet
  • Katy
  • Muriel
  • Nichola
  • Rebecca
  • Rosemarie
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Yvonne

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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