HENSHER
Hensher
Hensher is a surname of British origin, most prevalent in the southern regions of England. The name is believed to have derived from the Old English word "hengest", referring to a male horse or stallion, and -er, a suffix commonly used in surnames to indicate association or occupation.
History:
The Hensher surname has a long history, dating back to medieval times. It is thought to have originated as a nickname for someone who was associated with horses, such as a horseman or a breeder. Over time, this name was passed down through generations, becoming a hereditary surname.
Distribution:
The distribution of the Hensher surname is most concentrated in counties such as Devon, Somerset, and Dorset in the southern part of England. However, individuals bearing the Hensher surname can also be found in other parts of the country and even around the world, particularly in former British colonies.
Notable Individuals:
- Philip Hensher (b. 1965): A prominent British writer and journalist known for his novels, short stories, and essays. Hensher has received critical acclaim for his works and has been a judge for various literary awards.
- William Hensher: An early settler in the American colonies who arrived in Virginia in the 17th century, contributing to the establishment of English communities in the New World.
Variants:
Over the centuries, the Hensher surname has seen various spellings and adaptations, including Henshaw and Henshall. These variants are often a result of regional dialects, clerical errors, or phonetic changes.
The Hensher surname, with its origins in the equestrian world, has become a distinctive part of British heritage and continues to be carried by individuals around the globe.
There are approximately 185 people named Hensher in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Hensher.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Christopher
- David
- Eric
- George
- Jonathan
- Mark
- Matthew
- Paul
- Peter
- Phil
- Robert
- Thomas
Female
- Elizabeth
- Gemma
- Henrietta
- Jacqueline
- Joan
- Judith
- Katherine
- Lucy
- Sarah
- Shirley