JOHNS

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Johns

Johns is a surname of English origin, derived from the given name John. The name John itself comes from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious". The surname Johns is classified as a patronymic surname, indicating that it was originally based on the personal name of the father of the original bearer.

Historically, the surname Johns has been present in various English-speaking regions, notably in Wales and Cornwall. In parts of Wales, particularly among the Welsh-speaking population, the surname Johns can often be found. The name is thought to have been introduced to Wales by English settlers following the Norman Conquest in the 11th century.

The Johns surname has undergone various spellings over time, including Johnes, Join, and Jons. Like many surnames, the spelling of Johns evolved phonetically and through clerical error.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Johns include Welsh poet and writer Vernon Watkins, and British Formula One racing driver Stirling Moss's mother, Aileen Moss, née Johns.

In modern times, the surname Johns continues to be found in England and across the globe among the British diaspora. It remains a prevalent and enduring name within the rich tapestry of British surnames.

There are approximately 15,009 people named Johns in the UK. That makes it the 586th most common surname in Britain. Around 230 in a million people in Britain are named Johns.

Surname type: From name of parent

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Wales

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Welsh

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Andrew
Christopher
David
Mark
Michael
Paul
Richard
Robert
Stephen
William

Female

Alison
Elizabeth
Emma
Helen
Margaret
Mary
Pamela
Patricia
Rebecca
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

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