Woolner is a surname of English origin. It is generally considered to be an occupational surname, derived from the Middle English word "wollere" or "woller," which refers to a dealer in wool or a worker involved in the wool trade. The surname likely originated as a descriptive name for individuals engaged in the production, processing, or sale of wool, a significant commodity in medieval England.
Variants of the surname include Wooler, Woolmore, and possibly others with similar phonetics and etymological roots.
Notable individuals with the surname Woolner include:
- Thomas Woolner (1825-1892): An English sculptor and poet, and one of the founding members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. His sculptures include statues of prominent figures and memorials.
The surname is found primarily in English-speaking countries, reflecting its origins in England. Records of the surname's presence can be found in historical documents such as census records, parish registers, and wills.