Surname Gernon - Meaning and Origin
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Gernon: What does the surname Gernon mean?
The surname Gernon is of Norman origin and was brought to England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name is derived from the Old French word "gernon," meaning "moustache". This was often given as a nickname in the Middle Ages to men who wore distinct facial hair. Like many surnames, Gernon was originally a nickname or occupational name that evolved into a surname, used to identify individuals from a particular family lineage or heritage. This name has numerous variant spellings including Gernan, Gernon, Guernon, and others. The family seat was established early in their residency in Bakewell in Derbyshire. Over the centuries, this surname spread across the UK, Ireland and later to the New World with the expansion of the British Empire. Despite its dispersal, it is not a common surname, making it relatively unique.
Order DNA origin analysisGernon: Where does the name Gernon come from?
The surname Gernon is of Norman origin, introduced into England through the Norman Conquest of 1066. The name has two possible sources. One is from the Old French "gernon," meaning "moustache." The other could be Norman habitual name from a place in France called Gournay-en-Brai. Either way, it suggests that the original bearers could either have had a large moustache or originated from the said place in France.
Today, the surname Gernon may not be incredibly common but it can be found in various parts of the world due to emigration. Primarily, it exists in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, and Canada. Historical documents suggest that the family was significant in the Middle Ages, with lands in Essex and Chester in England. Meanwhile, different variations of the surname have also been formed over time such as de Gernon, Gernons, de Gernun, and others.
Variations of the surname Gernon
The surname Gernon has its origins in the French region of Normandy and was introduced to the British Isles after the Norman Conquest of 1066. Over the centuries, the name has evolved and been adapted, resulting in several variations. Some of these include Gurnon, Gurney, Grenon, and Gernan.
In its early records, it was often spelled as "de Gernon", with the "de" implying nobility or land ownership. Sometimes, it would also be spelled without the 'e', as in "Gernon", or with an 'a' instead, as in "Garnon".
There are also phonetic variants that were developed mainly due to the differences in regional accents and spelling rules in different parts of the UK. For example, it could be spelled as "Girnon" or "Geurnon" in some parts of the country.
Notably, the surname Gurney, also derived from Gernon, has become widespread and well-known in its own right, with many notable people bearing this surname.
However, regardless of the spelling, all variants of the name Gernon carry the same heraldry and share the same noble origin.
Famous people with the name Gernon
- Robert Gernon: He was a prominent figure in the U.S legal fraternity, serving as Associate Justice of the Kansas Supreme Court.
- Edward Gernon: He is a television producer responsible for "A Quiet Killer," "Sins of the Mother," and other TV films.
- Luke Gernon: He has gained recognition as a traveling Youtuber.
- Michael Gernon: He is known for his work in the field of education. He has held senior leadership roles in academic institutions and appeared in numerous webinars.
- Barbara Gernon: She is a co-author of fantasy novels "The Songreaver's Story" series.
- Mike Gernon: He is the Chief Growth Officer at EDUCATIONCANTWAIT, a global fund dedicated to education in emergencies and protracted crises.
- Frank L. Gernon: He was an American jurist who served as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Kansas from 1917 to 1935. Please note that most of these figures are known in specific circles and may not be universally recognized.