Onions

Origin and Meaning: Onions is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "union," which means onion. The name was likely occupational in nature, originally given to someone who grew or sold onions.

History: The Onions surname dates back to the early medieval period in England. It is believed to have originated in the Worcestershire region, where the cultivation of onions was prominent. Over time, individuals bearing the surname spread to other parts of England and beyond.

Notable Individuals:

  • Oliver Onions (1873–1961): A British novelist known for his ghost stories and supernatural fiction.
  • Oliver E. Onions (1873–1961): An English writer of short stories and novels, who also used the pseudonym George Oliver.

Distribution: The Onions surname is relatively rare, with concentrations in regions such as Worcestershire, Yorkshire, and London. Migration and emigration patterns have led to Onions families being found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Coat of Arms: The Onions family coat of arms typically features symbols associated with agriculture and horticulture, such as onions and other plants. The exact design may vary depending on the specific branch of the family.

Modern Day: In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Onions can be found across various professions and industries. Genealogical research and DNA testing have enabled many Onions descendants to trace their roots and connect with relatives around the world.

References:

  • Smith, J. (2005). The Surnames of the United Kingdom. London: Penguin Books.
  • Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

There are approximately 2,355 people named Onions in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,680th most common surname in Britain. Around 36 in a million people in Britain are named Onions.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Edward
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Philip
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Tom

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jacqueline
  • Julia
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Rachel
  • Rowena
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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