SWINHOE

Swinhoe

Overview

Swinhoe is a surname of Old English origin, derived from the word "Swin" meaning a pig or boar, and "hoe" meaning a hill-spur or ridge. The name is classified as a locational surname, typically given to someone who lived by a ridge where pigs were kept.

History

The Swinhoe surname has its roots in the rural landscapes of England, particularly in regions where pig farming was prevalent. The earliest recorded instance of the name dates back to the medieval period, with variations such as Swinhough, Swinhow, or Swinow appearing in historical documents. The name has since evolved into its current form of Swinhoe.

Distribution

The Swinhoe surname is relatively rare, with most occurrences recorded in the northern counties of England, such as Northumberland and Yorkshire. Over time, migration and dispersal have led to individuals bearing the Swinhoe name residing in other parts of the United Kingdom and even overseas.

Notable Individuals

Notable individuals bearing the Swinhoe surname include naturalist Robert Swinhoe (1836–1877), renowned for his contributions to ornithology and zoology, particularly in East Asia. Another notable figure is Captain Robert Swinhoe (1836-1877), a British naval officer and explorer who played a significant role in the exploration of the Chinese coast and Taiwan.

References

• P. H. Reaney, R. M. Wilson, "A Dictionary of English Surnames" (Oxford University Press, 1997)
• J. C. Rees, "The Origins of Some Anglo-Saxon Surnames" (Genealogical Publishing Com, 2013)
• B. C. Wayne, "The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland" (Oxford University Press, 2016)

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

• Andrew
• Chris
• Christopher
• David
• John
• Mark
• Michael
• Paul
• Richard
• Stephen
• Steven
• William

Female

• Emma
• Joan
• Julie
• Lisa
• Margaret
• Mary
• Michelle
• Pamela
• Paula
• Sharon
• Susan