Hopper

The surname Hopper is of English origin, derived from the occupational name for someone who hopped, that is, tended to or harvested hops, which are a key ingredient in brewing beer. The surname is widespread in the United Kingdom, with concentrations in regions where hop farming was historically prevalent.

Origins

The original bearers of the surname Hopper likely worked in the brewing industry, cultivating hops for beer production. The name is believed to have emerged in the medieval period when the demand for ale and beer was on the rise.

Distribution

The surname Hopper is most commonly found in the north of England, particularly Yorkshire and Durham, reflecting the historical importance of hop cultivation in these regions. Over time, the name has spread throughout the country and the wider world, borne by individuals who may have no connection to its original occupational meaning.

Notable Bearers

The surname Hopper has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous was Edward Hopper (1882–1967), an influential American realist painter. In the UK, individuals with the surname Hopper have excelled in various fields, including sports, academia, and the arts.

Variants

Variants of the surname Hopper include Hoppner, Hope, and Hopkins, each reflecting different regional pronunciations and spellings over the centuries.

Heraldic Features

The Hopper family crest typically features traditional heraldic symbols such as hops, barley, or other elements associated with brewing and agriculture.

In conclusion, the surname Hopper is deeply rooted in the history of the brewing industry in England, and its bearers continue to make their mark in diverse fields across the UK and beyond.

There are approximately 6,707 people named Hopper in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,405th most common surname in Britain. Around 103 in a million people in Britain are named Hopper.

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
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Angela
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Joanne
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

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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