Surname Tonnies - Meaning and Origin
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Tonnies: What does the surname Tonnies mean?
The last name Tonnies is of German origin, derived from the Germanic masculine given name "Tonna," which comes from the Old High German "Tono" or "Tunnen." The element "Tunnen" in this name likely comes from the Germanic "Tunna," meaning "shield or protection," and there are several example locations and people groups in the Germanic world where these two elements are combined to form a name.
Tonnies families most likely come from the area now known as Saxony, and the name is especially associated with parts of the former Eastern Prussia. From the 14th century onwards, the Tonnies name was recorded in East Prussia, where the family had a significant presence among the land-owning nobility. Records of the name appear in various forms, including Tonaeus, Tounia, Tonni, Toni, Tunia, Tunni, Tuni, Tonne, Tonniess, Tunny, and Tonny.
Because of the strong meaning behind the name, it is likely that those with this surname chose it because of its potential to provide a sense of safety and protection. The original bearer of the name may have been bestowed with it in recognition of their prowess in battle or for the honor of their name. This idea of protection was likely carried throughout the generations and represents the spirit of the Tonnies family to this day.
Order DNA origin analysisTonnies: Where does the name Tonnies come from?
The last name Tonnies is primarily found in Germany today. It is also found in Austria, Netherlands, the United States, Switzerland and Israel. Tonnies is not an especially common name; however, some notable people with that last name include the German sociologist Ferdinand Tonnies, alongside his philosopher brothers Gustav and Wilhelm.
Tonnies is the second most common name in the northern German city of Bremen, where it is thought to have originated. It also ranks somewhat higher in popular German states such as Bavaria, Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein. The name is less common in other areas, such as the former East Germany, where other popular names take precedence.
Outside of Germany, the name is seen mostly among emigrants from the country and their descendants. In the Netherlands, the name is thought to date back to the mid-1600s. In the USA, many of the first Tonnies to settled came to Wisconsin and Minnesota during the 19th century, while some also immigrated to other states. In Israel, the name is carried by descendants of German Jews who left the country during WWII, and it is also found in Switzerland due to more recent migration.
Variations of the surname Tonnies
The surname Tonnies can be spelled in a variety of ways, including Tonny, Tonney, Tonnie, Tonne, and Tonneyes. Variants of Tonnies include Tonies, Tawny, and Tonis. The surname can also be seen as Tonnesen, Tawnies, Tawnasus, Tonneesen, Tonayes, and Tawna, depending on the geographic location.
In England, Tonnies is generally spelled Tonney and Tonnie, or written as Taunay, Tonne, Tawney, Tonnay, Taunayes. In Germany, the spelling of Tonnies is similar; however, Tonnis, Tunnis, Tonnisse, and Tunesen are often seen.
In Ireland, the surname is more likely to be seen as Tawneys, Tonnys, Tonies, or Tomsen. The American spelling of Tonnies is usually Tonney, although Tonne, Tanny, and Tannesen can also be found. Variations on the spelling of the surname can be found in The Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark and Finland as well.
In any given area, a researcher may find that the surname is spelled in multiple ways. It is advisable to search a number of sources to identify the full range of spellings and surnames of the same origin.
Famous people with the name Tonnies
- Ferdinand Tonnies: German sociologist and philosopher who founded the school of sociology known as Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft.
- Johann Tonnies: German author who wrote the book Oon the Origin of the True and Genuine Eucharist.
- Jacob Tonnies: German poet who wrote works about the country way of life in Germany.
- Hans Tonnies: German engineer who designed and built the 1957 Formula Two single-seater racing car which won two German Grand Prix.
- Gunther Tonnies: German WWII fighter ace who flew with the Luftwaffe and is documented for his role in the Great Escape.
- Bruno Tonnies: German actor best known for work in films such as The Exorcist and The Deer Hunter.
- Johannes Tonnies: German economist and founder of the theory of Public Choice.
- Klaus Tonnies: German author and scientist who wrote on biology and zoology.
- Karlton Tonnies: German sculptor who was heavily influenced by traditional styles and methods.
- Larvi Tonnies: German aviator who was an innovator in the introduction of aerial photography.