Surname Falkner - Meaning and Origin
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Falkner: What does the surname Falkner mean?
Falkner is a surname of Germanic origin, meaning "falconer". It was traditionally an occupational name given to an individual who trained or hunted with falcons, a practice held in high esteem in the medieval period. Falconry was a favored sport and status symbol among the nobility in medieval Europe. The nobility often employed a professional falconer to maintain and train their birds for hunting game. These individuals would then receive the surname Falkner, literally translating to "one who trains or works with falcons". Variations of the surname include Faulkner, Fawkner, and Falconer. Over the generations, the name has spread to various regions and countries, and it can be found throughout the world today. Therefore, this last name signifies a family history connected to the practice of falconry, showing a connection to the outdoors, birds, hunting and medieval traditions.
Order DNA origin analysisFalkner: Where does the name Falkner come from?
The last name Falkner is of Germanic origin and it means "falconer," denoting a person whose job was to train or hunt with falcons - a popular sport among the nobility during medieval times. This surname was occupational, assigned to individuals involved in this occupation.
While still common in Germany, the name spread throughout Europe, especially in areas like the United Kingdom. It also spread to the Americas during periods of migration, and today can most commonly be found in the United States and to some extent, Canada. The name has several spelling variations including Faulkner, Falkner, and Volkenaer, which might also be prevalent in these regions. William Faulkner, a renowned American writer and Nobel laureate, is a well-known bearer of a variation of this surname. However, it's relatively less common when compared to the frequency of other surnames globally.
Variations of the surname Falkner
There are a few different forms, variations, and similar surnames related to the surname Falkner. The name likely has Germanic roots and may originally stem from the occupation of falconing, referring to a person who reared or used falcons.
Variants of Falkner can include Falckner, Faulkner, Fawkner and Faultner. The variant Faulkner is notably popular in English-speaking countries such as the USA, England, and Canada. Fawkner is another spelling seen less frequently.
It's worth noting that similar surnames might be of the same origin due to spelling being less standardized historically and family names often changing over time and across different regions. For example, the surname Faulknor, though not identical, shares similar letters and phonetics and may be related.
However, all surnames tend to be unique to the family and the lineage they possess, so even with similar spelling and origins, the surnames' meanings can differ. The same applies to the surnames of Falkner or Faulkner, which require individual genealogical research for an accurate and detailed history.
Famous people with the name Falkner
- William Faulkner (original surname Falkner): An American writer and Nobel Prize laureate, known for his novels, short stories, and plays. His works often explore motifs like the decay of old South, slavery, and the complexities of human nature.
- Tavi Gevinson (born Claire Wilson Falkner): She is an American writer, editor, and actress, famously known for founding the online magazine 'Rookie' when she was just 15.
- Adam Faulkner: Also known as DJ Falkner, he is a British musician and record producer, primarily known for his work in the techno genre.
- Dame Felicity Ann Emwhyla Falkner: A British food writer and television cook, who has hosted numerous cookery programs.
- Harry A. Falkner: A former professional American football player who played in the National Football League (NFL) for the Akron Pros.
- Nicole Falkner: She is a German volleyball player who competed for Germany at the Women's European Volleyball Championship in 2011.
- Tom Faulkner: He is a respected English furniture designer and manufacturer.
- Paul Falkner: A British professional snooker player from the late 20th Century. Not as famous, but notable in their respective fields.