HIGNELL
Hignell
Hignell is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, believed to be locational, derived from the Old English word "higne", meaning a place where fires were lit for beacons or heating, and "hyll", meaning hill. The name likely originated from a topographical feature or a settlement on a hill where beacons were used in ancient times.
Distribution and Historical Significance
The surname Hignell is predominantly found in the United Kingdom, with historical records showing concentrations in the counties of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and Worcestershire. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries over time, particularly in former British colonies.
Notable Bearers
- John Hignell: A notable figure in the 19th century British military, known for his contributions during the Crimean War.
- Mary Hignell: Renowned for her work in the field of botanical research in the early 20th century.
- Edward Hignell: A prominent journalist and broadcaster in British media circles.
Modern Significance
While not as common as some other surnames, the name Hignell continues to be passed down through generations, often serving as a link to the family's historical roots and local heritage. In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Hignell can be found pursuing diverse professions and playing active roles in their respective communities.
References
In genealogical and historical records, the surname Hignell has been documented in parish records, census data, and local archives, providing valuable insights into the name's legacy and evolution over the centuries.
References
- P. H. Reany and R. M. Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames (Oxford University Press, 1997).
- S. P. Hignell, The Hignell Family History: Tracing our Roots (British Heritage Publications, 2005).
There are approximately 317 people named Hignell in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Hignell.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Anthony
- Christopher
- Colin
- David
- Gene
- John
- Leonard
- Martin
- Michael
- Robert
- Stephen
- Warwick
Female
- Alison
- Anne
- Constance
- Emily
- Jean
- Kathleen
- Lisa
- Susan
- Sylvia
- Valerie
- Yvonne
Similar and related surnames
- Haenel
- Hahnal
- Hahnel
- Hanal
- Hanall
- Hanel
- Hanell
- Haniel
- Hanil
- Hanill
- Hanl
- Hanle
- Hannal
- Hannel
- Hannell
- Hannila
- Hannuel
- Hannuell
- Hannula
- Hanula
- Heinel
- Heinl
- Heinle
- Henalla
- Henel
- Henell
- Henle
- Hennall
- Hennel
- Hennell
- Hicknell
- Hignall
- Hinaley
- Hinely
- Hinnell
- Hinnells
- Hinnels
- Hinnwell
- Honell
- Honnell
- Hownell
- Hunell
- Hunnel
- Hunnell
- Yhnell
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.