Surname Howl - Meaning and Origin
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Howl: What does the surname Howl mean?
The surname Howl is of English origin and it is believed to have derived from a geographical locality 'at the hill', as referenced in old manuscripts and records. It can also be traced back to the old English term "how" which also meant a hill or mound. This suggests that the earliest generations of the Howl family were living by a hill. The use of geographical features in surnames was a common practice in England during the time family names were becoming hereditary. Thus, the meaning of the name Howl is typically associated with a hill or high place. Like most surnames, it was also subjected to variations over time and migration, thus similar names may include Howell, Howle, and Howel. As with many names from this era, the exact derivation and meaning can be somewhat uncertain due to the lack of comprehensive historical records.
Order DNA origin analysisHowl: Where does the name Howl come from?
The surname Howl is of English origin and primarily derived from the Old English pre 7th century word "hol” or “holh", meaning hollow or hole. This surname was traditionally given as a topographic name for someone who either lived in or near a hollow or a hole or perhaps as a nickname to someone who displayed characteristics related to such settings.
The early recordings of this surname date back to the 12th and 13th centuries in England, with names like Robert del Hole and Leuan in the Hole appearing in record books from this era. Over centuries and with different dialects influencing the spelling, the name evolved and variations like Howl, Houl, Howle, Hole, Holes, Holis, and Hollis came into existence.
Today, the surname Howl is most common in the United States, followed by England and Australia. However, it remains a relatively rare surname worldwide. The frequency of the surname Howl is highest in Pembrokeshire, Wales. It’s important to note that information on surnames can vary and further detailed genealogical research is often needed to trace the precise history and spread of such surnames.
Variations of the surname Howl
The surname Howl may have roots in various cultures, and in each, it can be different in terms of its spelling, use, or meaning. Some of the variations or similar surnames include Howell, Howells, Hawell, Howle, Howel, Houl and Hovell. It might also be possible to find the surname as Howley, Howlin, or even Holl.
In some cases, the surname could also be derived from a place name, like Howelton or Howlette. There is also possibility it originated from Middle English or Welsh elements, related to terms meaning 'sun' or 'eminent'. In context, variations of Howl could possibly include names like Hauell, Haughell, or Houghell, relating to a geographic feature like a hill.
In Wales, it is common to find patronymic versions of Howell, such as ap Howell, meaning 'son of Howell'.
Users should remember that data could vary based on different factors (e.g. regional dialects, phonetic spelling) and should be verified individually.
Please note that these are suggestive variants and without a comprehensive genealogical study, this list may not exhaust all possible variants of the surname Howl.
Famous people with the name Howl
- Stephen Howl Jr., former National Football League wide receiver
- Julie Howl, singer-songwriter
- Peter Howl, British journalist
- Mike Howl, former professional tennis player
- Emily Howl, YouTuber
- Richard Howl, British actor
- Hayley Howl, English ice dancer
- Melissa Howl, award-winning Canadian singer
- Alice Howl, British Children's author
- Michael Howl, British visual effects artist
- Kelly Howl, American country singer
- Bethany Howl, American figure skater
- Alex Howl, award-winning Australian opera singer
- Lilly Howl, British poet
- Christopher Howl, Canadian film producer
- Clare Howl, British event planner
- Daisy Howl, American actress
- Jack Howl, Australian indie-pop singer-songwriter
- Sasha Howl, English disc jockey
- Lola Howl, Welsh-American artist