PENMAN
Penman
Penman is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English words "pen", meaning hill or headland, and "mann", meaning man. The surname likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived on a hill or headland.
History:
The Penman surname is found predominantly in Scotland but also has some presence in England. The name was first recorded in the late 12th century in Scotland. Over time, the surname has evolved and diversified, with various spellings such as Pennman and Penmon also being used.
Notable Individuals:
- Sir John Penman: A Scottish knight who fought in the Wars of Scottish Independence.
- Catherine Penman: A renowned Scottish poet and author of the 18th century.
- Dr. William Penman: A prominent British psychologist known for his research on human behaviour.
Distribution:
The Penman surname is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in regions such as Perthshire, Fife, and Glasgow. However, there are also Penman families in England and other parts of the United Kingdom. The surname has also spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Variants:
Variants of the Penman surname include Pennman, Penmon, and Penmann. These variations stem from differences in spelling and pronunciation over time.
Crest and Motto:
The Penman family crest typically features symbols such as a lion or stag, representing strength and nobility. The family motto may vary depending on the branch of the family, but common themes include unity, courage, and loyalty.
In conclusion, the Penman surname is a longstanding and distinguished Scottish name with a rich history. It has been borne by individuals of note and continues to be part of the cultural tapestry of the British Isles.
There are approximately 4,415 people named Penman in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,123rd most common surname in Britain. Around 68 in a million people in Britain are named Penman.
Surname type: Occupational name
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- George
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Gillian
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Janet
- Julie
- Karen
- Laura
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah