Surname Hood - Meaning and Origin
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Hood: What does the surname Hood mean?
The surname Hood is of English origins and is derived from the Middle English term "Hod" or Old English term "Hoth," both of which mean "hood." This nickname was often given to individuals who made, sold, or wore hoods in the medieval period. These hoods were a significant item of clothing during this time, providing protection from the elements for travelers and outdoor workers. Alternatively, in some cases, the name could be derived from a misdivision of the term "atte (the) Wood." Over time, "atte Wood" became "a Wood," which eventually evolved into "Hood." Therefore, it may be used as an English topographic surname for someone who lived near or in a wood. Like many surnames, Hood can also be traced back to several different regions, each with its own distinct heritage and history attached to it.
Hood: Where does the name Hood come from?
The last name Hood originates from England and Scotland. It is derived from the Old English word, "hod," which means "hood," "hat," or "helmet." This term often referred to a maker of hoods, someone who repeatedly wore a hood, or perhaps even a person living in a hood-like geographical area. The earliest known recording of the surname Hood is in the 13th century. Today, the last name Hood is common in English-speaking countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. In the United States, it is particularly prevalent in the states of Texas, California, and Florida. Despite this surname's origins in Britain, it is important to note that it has spread globally and may be present in varying frequencies in many diverse countries.
Variations of the surname Hood
The surname Hood originates from the English term 'hood', which was used in medieval times to refer to either a hood-maker or someone who often wore a hood. Variants of the surname include Hoods, Hoodes, Hoode, Hude, Hudde, and Hodde.
In Ireland, the name was Anglicized from Irish surname Ó h-Udáin, which translates to 'descendant of Udán'. Some have also connected the Hood name to the Scottish surname MacHood or McHood, a patronymic form of the personal name Hugh.
The surname seemed to spread in Scotland and Northern England. The most common version remains Hood, though some exception towards spelling includes Hoods, Hudd, Hud and Hude in various regions and periods. The spelling could change influenced by local dialect and literacy levels with phonetic spelling.
The Hood surname has spread across the world due to migration and colonisation, particularly within English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Here the name has mostly retained the original spelling, Hood.
Overall, Hood along with the variations mentioned above represent the variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin for the surname Hood. In terms of origin, the name traces back to English and Irish roots but has since diffused around the world.
Famous people with the name Hood
- Robin Hood: English folklore hero
- Hood by Air: New York City-based fashion house
- Earl Sweatshirt: American rapper
- Eliza Doolittle: English singer
- Salt-n-Pepa: famous American hip-hop and rap group
- Sam Hood: Australian professional composer, arranger and producer
- Sarai-Jade Hood: professional BMX dirt rider
- Samantha Mumba: Irish singer, actress and model
- Jordan Hood: American businesswoman
- Jacintha Ellis-Hood: British actress