HORNBY
Hornby
Hornby is a prominent British surname with origins tracing back to the picturesque region of Lancashire in North West England. The name is derived from the Old Norse words "horn" meaning "corner" or "projecting piece of land" and "by" which refers to a farmstead or settlement. This suggests that the surname was likely to have been given to families residing near a corner or bend in the land.
The Hornby family name has historical significance and has been associated with various notable individuals over the centuries. One of the most famous bearers of the surname was Sir William Hornby, a distinguished English naval officer who served in the Royal Navy during the 18th century. Another well-known figure is Charles Hornby, a renowned explorer and naturalist who documented flora and fauna in the British Isles in the early 19th century.
The surname Hornby has spread beyond its Lancastrian roots and can be found throughout the United Kingdom and in other English-speaking countries. The name continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining a connection to its historical and cultural roots.
In conclusion, the British surname Hornby is steeped in history and geographical significance, reflecting the ancestral heritage of families who bear this distinguished name.
There are approximately 5,587 people named Hornby in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,693rd most common surname in Britain. Around 86 in a million people in Britain are named Hornby.
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
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Gillian
- Karen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan