Hooper

Hooper is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Middle English word "hop," which referred to a person who harvested hops or worked in a hopyard. The surname is common in England and can be traced back to medieval times.

Origin and Meaning

The name Hooper is believed to have originated in the West Country of England, particularly in regions where hop cultivation was prevalent. The Hoopers were likely those involved in the brewing industry, as hops are a key ingredient in beer production. Over time, the surname became hereditary and passed down from generation to generation.

Distribution

The surname Hooper is still most commonly found in England, particularly in the southern counties. However, due to migration and emigration patterns, Hoopers can also be found in other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Individuals

  • Steve Hooper (b. 1965) - British actor known for his roles in various television shows and films.
  • Tess Hooper (b. 1958) - American filmmaker and actress.
  • George P. Hooper (1887–1976) - British zoologist and marine biologist known for his research on cephalopods.

Cultural Significance

The Hooper surname has been featured in various literary works, films, and popular culture references. It is often used to depict characters with a strong work ethic or a connection to the brewing industry.

Variants

The surname Hooper may have variations in spelling, such as "Hoope," "Hooperman," or "Hopper." These variants are the result of regional dialects and historical changes in spelling conventions.

In conclusion, the surname Hooper carries a rich history tied to the brewing and agricultural industries of England. Its prevalence in various English-speaking countries highlights the lasting impact of occupational surnames in shaping family identities and heritage.

There are approximately 19,493 people named Hooper in the UK. That makes it the 443rd most common surname in Britain. Around 299 in a million people in Britain are named Hooper.

Surname type: Occupational name

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
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Pauline
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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