SKINNER

Skinner

Introduction

Skinner is an English occupational surname of medieval Anglo-Saxon origin. It derives from the Old English word "scinn", which means "shine" or "bright". The name was originally given to individuals who worked as skinners, or someone who prepared and tanned animal hides, particularly for leather production. Over time, the surname Skinner has become widespread throughout the British Isles and beyond, with variations in spelling and regional distribution.

Origins and History

The surname Skinner can be traced back to the early Middle Ages in England, with records dating back to the 11th century. The occupation of a skinner was important in medieval society, as leatherworking was a crucial industry for clothing, footwear, and other goods. Skinners were skilled craftsmen who processed animal skins to produce leather through various methods such as curing, tanning, and dyeing.

As the surname Skinner became established, families with this name spread across England, Scotland, and Wales. Over time, different branches of the Skinner family emerged, each with its own history and traditions. Some Skinner families gained prominence in local communities, while others migrated to different regions or countries, contributing to the global distribution of the surname.

Notable Individuals

• B. F. Skinner (1904-1990) - An American psychologist known for his work in behaviorism and operant conditioning, B. F. Skinner was a influential figure in the field of psychology.

• Otis Skinner (1858-1943) - A renowned American stage actor, Otis Skinner was known for his performances in classical and Shakespearean plays during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

• Skinner Family of London - A prominent family in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Skinners of London were successful merchants and members of the Worshipful Company of Skinners, one of the historic trade guilds of the City of London.

Modern Distribution and Variants

Today, the surname Skinner remains common in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Scotland. It has also spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among others. Variants of the surname may include Skynner, Skinners, Skinnor, and Skiner, reflecting the diverse spellings that have emerged over time.

Conclusion

The surname Skinner carries a rich history of craftsmanship and industry, reflecting the important role of skinners in medieval society. From its origins in England to its global presence today, the Skinner name continues to be a testament to the legacy and contributions of those who bore it.

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
• David
• James
• John
• Mark
• Michael
• Paul
• Peter
• Richard
• Robert

Female

• Anne
• Elizabeth
• Helen
• Jacqueline
• Jane
• Janet
• Julie
• Karen
• 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.