HOVELL
Hovell
Hovell is a surname of English origin that can be traced back to medieval times. The name is derived from the Old French personal name "Hovel" or "Hovil," which was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
Origin
The surname Hovell is believed to have originated as a nickname or descriptive surname. The name may have been used to describe someone who lived in a hovel or a small, humble dwelling. Alternatively, it may have been a personal name given to someone who was known for their simplicity or lack of pretension.
Distribution
The surname Hovell is relatively rare in the United Kingdom and is most commonly found in areas with historical connections to Norman influence, such as the southeast of England. Over time, the name may have spread to other parts of the country through migration and intermarriage.
Notable Bearers
Matthew Flinders (1774-1814)
One of the most notable bearers of the surname Hovell was Matthew Flinders, an English navigator and cartographer who led the first circumnavigation of Australia. Flinders collaborated with his friend and fellow explorer, George Bass, on several important voyages of discovery along the Australian coastline.
In Popular Culture
The surname Hovell has been used in various works of fiction and literature as a character name. Its historical origins and connotations of simplicity and humility have made it a popular choice for writers seeking to evoke a sense of authenticity or realism in their storytelling.
In conclusion, the surname Hovell is a distinctive and historically significant name that reflects the rich tapestry of English heritage and ancestry. Whether as a reminder of humble beginnings or a badge of honour for pioneering explorers, the name Hovell continues to play a role in shaping the cultural landscape of the United Kingdom.
There are approximately 714 people named Hovell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,561st most common surname in Britain. Around 11 in a million people in Britain are named Hovell.
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
- Alan
- Andrew
- Ben
- Christopher
- David
- Ian
- John
- Mark
- Paul
- Peter
- Thomas
- Tom
Female
- Alison
- Amanda
- Anne
- Gillian
- Joanne
- Laura
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Melissa
- Rachel
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.