PENNINGTON
Pennington
Pennington is a prominent surname of English origin, typically found in regions such as Lancashire and Cumberland. The name is derived from the Old English personal name 'Pen(n)a' and the suffix '-ing', meaning 'the settlement or estate of the Pen(n)a family'. The addition of 'ton' represents a common element in English place names, indicating a settlement or town.
Origins and History
The Pennington family has a long history, with records dating back to the medieval period. They were known for their involvement in local governance, land ownership, and military service. One of the notable branches of the Pennington family established themselves in the Lake District region. Sir John Pennington, a prominent member of this branch, played a key role in the defence of the Carlisle Castle during the English Civil War.
Distribution and Legacy
Over the centuries, the Pennington surname spread to other parts of England and beyond, particularly to regions with historical connections to the British Isles. Today, individuals bearing the surname Pennington can be found in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Individuals
Numerous individuals with the surname Pennington have made notable contributions in various fields, including literature, politics, and sports. One such example is William Pennington, an English poet known for his lyrical verses inspired by the natural beauty of the Lake District.
References
- Reaney, P.H., and Wilson, R.M. A Dictionary of English Surnames. Routledge, 1997.
- Burke, Bernard. A Genealogical and Heraldic Dictionary of the Landed Gentry of Great Britain & Ireland. Harrison, 1894.
There are approximately 8,948 people named Pennington in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,060th most common surname in Britain. Around 137 in a million people in Britain are named Pennington.
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
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Richard
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Anne
- Caroline
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jane
- Joanne
- Julie
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.