Pointer

The surname Pointer is of English origin and is believed to have occupational roots, derived from the Old French word "pointour", meaning a stitcher. This suggests that the early bearers of the surname Pointer were likely involved in needlework, tailoring, or perhaps even a craftsman skilled in fine embroidery.

The surname Pointer is relatively rare and is primarily found in the United Kingdom. The earliest recorded instance of the surname dates back to the 16th century in the county of Berkshire, England. Over time, bearers of the Pointer surname have migrated to various parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Pointer include British musician and songwriter June Pointer, part of the successful singing group The Pointer Sisters. The surname Pointer has also been used in the animal world, notably for the Pointer dog breed, a versatile hunting dog known for its agility and excellent sense of smell.

In conclusion, the surname Pointer is a distinctive and rare English surname with possible occupational origins, tied to those skilled in needlework or embroidery. Today, individuals with the surname Pointer can be found across the globe, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors in various professions and pursuits.

There are approximately 2,091 people named Pointer in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,058th most common surname in Britain. Around 32 in a million people in Britain are named Pointer.

Surname type: Occupational name

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

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Robert
  • Simon
  • Stephen

Female

  • Angela
  • Ann
  • Christine
  • Janet
  • Jean
  • Julie
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Rebecca
  • Sally
  • Sarah
  • Shirley
  • 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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