Powner

Powner is an English surname of occupational origin. The name derives from the Middle English term "pownour," which referred to an individual who worked as a pound keeper or a person responsible for impounding stray animals. The duties of a pownour typically included rounding up stray livestock and detaining them in a pound until their owners paid a fee for their release.

The first historical records of the surname Powner date back to the late 13th century in the English county of Norfolk. Over the centuries, the name has spread to various parts of England, with concentrations in counties such as Suffolk, Essex, and Kent.

Individuals bearing the surname Powner have been involved in a variety of professions and pursuits throughout history. Some have been farmers, landowners, or tradespeople, while others have pursued careers in professions such as law, academia, or the arts.

Today, the surname Powner remains relatively uncommon but can still be found among diverse communities in the United Kingdom and beyond. The name serves as a reminder of the historical occupations and societal structures that shaped English culture and identity.

There are approximately 507 people named Powner in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Powner.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Brian
  • Christopher
  • Dale
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Jonathan
  • Michael
  • Philip
  • Ricky
  • Stephen
  • Steven

Female

  • Alison
  • Clare
  • Jacqueline
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Rachel
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Wendy

Similar and related surnames

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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.