Loring

Origin and Meaning

Loring is an English surname with Norman-French origins. The name is believed to derive from the Old French word "l'orin", meaning "the snipe bird". The snipe is a type of bird known for its elusive nature and is often associated with marshy or wetland areas. This suggests that the name may have originally been a nickname for someone who lived in or near such habitats.

History

The surname Loring is ancient and can be traced back to medieval England. The family is recorded as holding lands in Somerset and Devonshire in the 11th century. The Lorings were a prominent family during the Middle Ages, with Sir Nigel Loring being a notable figure, known for his service in the Hundred Years' War.

Over the centuries, the Loring surname has spread across various regions of England. The name can be found in historical records, such as parish registers, census data, and wills, indicating the presence of Loring families in different parts of the country.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir Nigel Loring (1325-1386): A fictional knight created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in his historical novel "The White Company", based on the historical figure of the same name. Sir Nigel Loring is portrayed as a valiant and chivalrous knight.

  • Louis Loring: An English novelist known for his works exploring themes of love and loss in the late 19th century.

Modern Distribution

Today, the surname Loring is found not only in the UK but also in various countries around the world, particularly in former British colonies. The name has also been adopted by individuals of different ethnicities through migration and intermarriage.

Coat of Arms

The Loring family crest features a shield embellished with symbols that may represent the family's heritage or achievements. The colours and design of the coat of arms would have been specific to each individual family line.

In conclusion, the surname Loring is a distinguished English surname with a rich history and widespread presence. It represents a legacy of nobility, courage, and connection to the land.

There are approximately 371 people named Loring in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Loring.

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

  • Barrie
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Gary
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Keith
  • Mark
  • Paul
  • Simon
  • Stephen
  • Terry

Female

  • Andrea
  • Anita
  • Brenda
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jacqueline
  • Jane
  • Karen
  • Lesley
  • Linda
  • Patricia
  • Samantha
  • Sarah

Similar and related surnames

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

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