Inger

Inger is a surname of English and Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name Ingvar, which means "protected by Ing", with Ing being a god in Germanic mythology.

Origins and Distribution: The surname Inger is most prevalent in England, particularly in the eastern parts of the country such as Suffolk and Norfolk. It can also be found in Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Norway, owing to its Norse roots.

Notable Individuals:

  • John Inger: An acclaimed British historian known for his research on medieval England.
  • Karen Inger: A Norwegian artist recognised for her expressive paintings inspired by nature.

Surname Variants: Variants of the Inger surname include Ingers, Ingerson, and Ingarsson, reflecting the different regional influences on the name over time.

Coat of Arms: The Inger coat of arms typically features symbols such as oak leaves, signifying strength and endurance, and a shield, symbolising protection and defence.

Modern Significance: In contemporary times, the Inger surname serves as a link to the rich cultural heritage of England and Scandinavia. Many bearers of the name take pride in their ancestry and the historical legacy associated with it.

References:

  • Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames.
  • Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland.

In conclusion, the Inger surname embodies a blend of English and Scandinavian heritage, with a rich history and a presence that endures through generations.

There are approximately 423 people named Inger in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Inger.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Anthony
  • Darren
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Simon
  • Thomas
  • Tom
  • Vladimir

Female

  • Barbara
  • Dorothy
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Jean
  • Joan
  • Joanne
  • Julie
  • Katherine
  • Sarah

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.