HORNUNG
Hornung
Hornung is a surname of Germanic origin, with roots tracing back to medieval times in Britain. The name is believed to have originated from the Old High German word "horn," which means "horn," and could have been used as a nickname for someone who played a horn or had characteristics associated with the horn.
Origins and Distribution
The surname Hornung is most commonly found in Germany and Switzerland, with variations of the name also present in Britain, particularly in regions with historical connections to Germanic tribes. Over time, variations in spelling have emerged, such as Hornung, Hornungen, Hornig, and Hornik.
Notable Individuals
Notable individuals bearing the surname Hornung include:
- E. W. Hornung (1866–1921): An English author known for creating the character A. J. Raffles, a gentleman thief in Victorian London.
- Alf Hornung: A British footballer who played for various clubs in the early 20th century.
Legacy
The surname Hornung continues to be passed down through generations, symbolising a historical connection to Germanic heritage with a presence in Britain. Family histories and genealogical studies often trace the lineage of the Hornung surname, contributing to a rich tapestry of British surnames and cultural heritage.
There are approximately 103 people named Hornung in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Hornung.
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English