Surname Hough - Meaning and Origin

Unearthing the Ancient Origins of the 'Hough' Surname Through iGENEA DNA Testing

Embracing the iGENEA DNA test, I discovered an impressive genetic testing technology that opened the gateway to my lineage and the deeper roots of the surname 'Hough'. The robust scientific methodology coupled with meticulous accuracy led to an enlightening revelation of my Norse-Viking origins, tracing my ancestry to Northern Europe.

Z. Hough

Hough: What does the surname Hough mean?

The surname Hough originates from the Anglo-Saxon region of Britain and has both topographical and occupational origins. As a topographical name, Hough was used to describe someone who lived on a hill or a steep slope. The term "hough" is derived from the Old English word "hoh", which means "heel" but was also used to refer to a projecting piece of land, ridge, or spur. Meanwhile, as an occupational name, Hough referred to an individual who was employed in caring for horses, derived from the Old English term "hoh", which also refers to a horse's hoof. Surnames during those times often reflected an individual’s work, familial lineage, or geographical location, which is where Hough likely originated from. Thus, the surname Hough reveals the occupation of the original bearer, his place of residence or other family-related information dating back to the medieval period in Britain.

Hough: Where does the name Hough come from?

The surname Hough is of Anglo-Saxon origin and it is derived from an Old English term "hoh", which means a hill spur or a ridge. This name should have been used to identify someone who lived near a hill or a ridge.

There are several places in England named with this term including Hoo in Kent and Shropshire, and Hoe in Norfolk, which may have given rise to the surname. In some instances, the name might have been topographical for a person who lived by a spur of a hill.

Since it has multiple potential origins, the surname was firstly borne in multiple areas in England, each of which developed their separate lineage. The surname Hough reportedly established roots in Cheshire (a county in the North West England), where the Hough family held a family seat since ancient times.

Today, the surname Hough is common in the United States and the United Kingdom, with significant numbers in Canada, Australia, and South Africa as well, following the patterns of English-speaking diaspora.

Variations of the surname Hough

The surname Hough is of English origin and has several spelling variations. Some common variations include Huff, Hough, Houghe, Howe, Hoough, Huffe, and Hufe.

This surname can be traced back to the Old English words "hoh" or "hoch," meaning "hill." As a topographic surname, it indicated where the original bearers lived - most likely on or near a hill.

Besides English-speaking countries, the surname has also been found in Ireland. There, the Gaelic form of the surname is "de hÍde" or "Ó hÍde." However, variations of it in Ireland often adapt to English phonetics and spelling conventions, becoming "Hyde."

It's also worth noting that the pronunciation of "Hough" and its variations can differ widely, even within the same country. For example, in the U.K., it can be pronounced like "huff," "hoke," "hawk," "hoe," or "hoff."

As for surnames that aren't direct variations but have the same root, we can include names that signify similar geographical features, such as Hill, Hills, Holme, Holt, and Hope. However, these surnames developed independently and may not be connected genealogically to Hough.

Famous people with the name Hough

• Julianne Hough: American multi-talented actress, dancer, singer, and songwriter
• Derek Hough: Professional dancer and Emmy Award-winning choreographer
• Cody Hough: Professional bull rider
• Aaron Hough: American actor
• Chad Hough: American mixed martial artist
• Chris Hough: Professional ice hockey player
• George Hough: American football player
• Kevin Hough: Professional basketball player
• Steve Hough: Australian cricket player
• George Hough Jr.: Professional wrestler and booker
• John Hough: English film director
• Margaret Hough: English composer
• Gordon Hough: American historian
• Bill Hough: Professional football player and coach
• Mike Hough: Professional golfer
• Peter Hough: English composer and organist
• Richard Hough: British writer, sailor, and historian

Other surnames

HoughmanHoughsHoughtalingHoughton