Howden

Howden is a prominent surname of British origin, believed to have been derived from the place name "Howden" in the East Riding of Yorkshire. The town of Howden dates back to the Viking era and is well-known for its historic Minster and market square.

The exact meaning of the surname "Howden" is disputed, but it is commonly thought to have originated from Old English or Old Norse words meaning "hill-shaped valley" or "hill in a hollow." This suggests that early bearers of the surname might have been associated with a geographical location characterized by such features.

The surname Howden has been documented in various historical records and is found among families across the United Kingdom and in the wider British diaspora. Individuals with the surname Howden have been noted in a range of professions and social roles over the centuries.

Notable bearers of the surname Howden include individuals who have made significant contributions to fields such as academia, business, the arts, and public service. The surname continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining a connection to the historical roots of the Howden family name.

In conclusion, the surname Howden is an enduring part of British heritage, tied to the landscapes and communities of Yorkshire and beyond. Its association with a place of historical significance underscores its rich cultural and ancestral importance.

There are approximately 2,995 people named Howden in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,998th most common surname in Britain. Around 46 in a million people in Britain are named Howden.

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
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Caroline
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Jane
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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