Horn

The surname "Horn" is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is derived from the Old English word "horn," which means "horn" or "corner." The surname may have originated as a descriptive name for someone who lived by a horn-shaped geographical feature or who worked with horns, such as a horn blower or a horn maker.

Distribution

The surname Horn is found predominantly in England, particularly in regions such as Yorkshire, Kent, and Devon. Over time, the surname has spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Individuals

Alfred Horn

Alfred Horn (1890-1979) was a British mathematician known for his work in analytic number theory and Diophantine approximations. He made significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in the study of continued fractions.

Shirley Horn

Shirley Horn (1934-2005) was a renowned jazz singer and pianist from the United Kingdom. She gained international acclaim for her soulful voice and unique interpretations of jazz standards. Shirley Horn won multiple Grammy Awards and is remembered as one of the leading figures in jazz music.

Variants

Variants of the surname Horn include Horne and Hornsby. These variations may have arisen from different regional pronunciations or spellings over time.

Coat of Arms

The Horn family coat of arms typically features symbols such as horns, shields, and heraldic crests. These elements are used to represent the family's history, achievements, and connections to specific regions or noble houses.

In conclusion, the surname Horn has a rich history and is associated with various notable individuals across different fields. Its origins in Anglo-Saxon England have contributed to its widespread use and recognition, making it a significant part of British surname heritage.

There are approximately 7,819 people named Horn in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,203rd most common surname in Britain. Around 120 in a million people in Britain are named Horn.

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
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alison
  • Angela
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jean
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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