Encyclopedia Entry: Penniston

The surname Penniston is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Old English pre 7th Century word "Penn", meaning "penny", and "tun", which refers to a settlement or village. Therefore, the name is thought to have originally been bestowed upon someone who lived in or near a village with the name "Penn".

The first recorded instance of the name Penniston dates back to the early 13th century in Yorkshire, England. It is commonly found in various spellings including Pennyston, Penstone, and Pennyston. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname have evolved due to factors such as regional accents, illiteracy, and clerical errors.

The Penniston family name has deeper roots in British history and society, with individuals bearing this surname attaining notable positions in various fields, including academia, politics, military, and business. The family has been associated with different regions across the United Kingdom, with notable clusters in Yorkshire and Lancashire.

Penniston is a name that signifies a rich heritage and a sense of community in British society. Its long history and widespread presence have made it a recognised and respected surname within the cultural tapestry of Britain.

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

• Adrian
• Alexander
• Christopher
• Daniel
• David
• Ian
• James
• John
• Ryan
• Stephen
• Steven

Female

• Bonita
• Bridget
• Christine
• Gilda
• Helen
• Joanna
• Josephine
• Judith
• Karen
• Kathryn
• Kim
• Nicola
• Rachel
• Rebecca
• Susan

Similar and related surnames

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