Surname Harring - Meaning and Origin

Harring: What does the surname Harring mean?

The surname Harring is of Dutch origin and can be traced back to the middle ages. Primarily, it is understood to be a patronymic surname. Patronymic surnames are derived from the personal names of father figures; the surname Harring is derived from the Dutch personal name "Heer", which means "army" or "ruler". Therefore, the literal translation of Harring could be "son of the ruler or the leader of the army". It could also denote "son of the warrior" highlighting a family lineage of warriors or soldiers. It's important to note that the specific meaning and history of a surname can vary significantly based on the family's individual history and geographic location, and these interpretations represent broad, generalized understanding of the surname. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of surnames can also evolve or change, further complicating their exact etymology.

Harring: Where does the name Harring come from?

The surname Harring originates from Northern Germany, specifically from the Lower Saxony region. The name is primarily derived from the Old German personal name Hariwulf or from the place-name Haringe. It is a classic example of a patronymic name, i.e., derived from the name of a father or ancestral figure.

In early times, it was common for an individual to be named after a distinguished person, hence the patronymic names. Harring, in this case, would mean "Son of Hari". Over time, this personal name evolved into a family name.

Harring is not a particularly common name globally today. It can still be found in Germany, more frequently in Lower Saxony. However, it has also spread to other countries over the centuries due to migration. The surname may be found in English-speaking countries like the United States (especially in Illinois, New York, and New Jersey), Australia, and Canada. Some Harrings also reside in the Netherlands, possibly due to close German-Dutch links. Its occurrence remains modest in these locations, indicating that it is still relatively less common.

Variations of the surname Harring

The surname Harring seems to have origins in Northern Europe, likely Germany or the Netherlands. Variants and similar surnames could include Haring, Haringe, Haering, Hering, and Häring. There can also be spellings such as Häringer and Haeringer which are commonly found in Germany and Austria.

In the Netherlands, the surname Haring is relatively common and might be an anglicized form of Harring. Hering is another variant that is prevalent in both Germany and the Netherlands.

In terms of closely associated last names, it's also worth considering that Harring could be a shortened or variant form of Harrington, a surname with English and Irish origins.

Keep in mind that name origins can be complex, originating from various sources such as occupation, location, characteristic, or a familial connection. Additionally, spellings often changed or morphed to suit different languages or cultures, especially during times of migration or when families moved across borders. Therefore these variants should serve as a broad guide rather than a comprehensive or exact list.

Famous people with the name Harring

• Naomi Watts: British-Australian actress and film producer
• Doug Harring: American football and basketball coach
• William C. Harring: American sailor and recipient of three Navy Crosses
• Mark Harring: American musician and bass player
• Robert Harring: American actor
• Kirsten Harring: Danish actress
• Conny Harring: Danish singer and actress
• Bill Harring: American former Major League Baseball player
• Mike Harring: American former professional basketball player
• Carl Harring: American businessman

Other surnames

HarrielsonHarriesHarriganHarrihyHarrillHarrilsonHarrilyHarrimanHarrinHarringtinHarringtonHarriodHarriotHarriottHarripHarrisHarrisenHarrisonHarriss