TONER
Toner
Toner is an English and Scottish surname, primarily found in the British Isles. The name is of Anglo-Norman origin, derived from the Old French word "toner," meaning a tanner of hides. This occupational surname was often given to individuals who worked as tanners or leatherworkers in medieval England and Scotland.
Origins:
The surname Toner can be traced back to the mid-12th century when the practice of using occupational surnames became common in England and Scotland. The early records show that the Toner family was predominantly concentrated in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and the Scottish Lowlands. Over time, some branches of the family migrated to other parts of the British Isles and further afield.
Notable Individuals:
- Henry Toner (1835–1920) - A prominent Irish physician and philanthropist known for his contributions to healthcare in Belfast.
- Kathleen Toner - A notable British journalist and author, renowned for her investigative reporting on environmental issues in the 20th century.
Distribution:
Today, the surname Toner is relatively rare but can still be found among various communities in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and the United States. The name continues to be passed down through generations, with some individuals actively researching their Toner ancestry and family history.
Variants:
Variants of the surname Toner include Tonner, Tonnar, and Tonre, reflecting different phonetic representations of the name across time and regions.
In conclusion, the surname Toner carries a rich historical heritage rooted in the ancestral occupations of tanners and leatherworkers. Its bearers have made significant contributions in diverse fields, adding to the tapestry of British and global society.
There are approximately 2,943 people named Toner in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,031st most common surname in Britain. Around 45 in a million people in Britain are named Toner.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- David
- James
- John
- Joseph
- Michael
- Patrick
- Paul
- Peter
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Kathleen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Maureen
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Sharon
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.