Hoole (surname)

The surname Hoole is of English origin. It is a locational surname, derived from a place name. There are two main possible origins for the name.

1. Hoole, Cheshire: This is the most common origin. The place name Hoole in Cheshire derives from the Old English words "hol" or "hole," meaning "hollow" or "depression," plus "leah," meaning "wood" or "clearing." Thus, the name signifies a "clearing in a hollow" or "wood in a depression." People who lived in or near this place would have adopted the surname.

2. Hoole, Lancashire: There is also a Hoole in Lancashire (now South Ribble), which could be an alternative source. The etymology is similar to the Cheshire Hoole, derived from Old English.

Distribution:

While found throughout England, the surname Hoole is most prevalent in the areas surrounding Cheshire and Lancashire, reflecting its likely origins. Over time, migration patterns have spread the name further afield, including to countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States.

Variations:

Variant spellings of the surname Hoole may include:

• Hole
• Hool
• Hoyles (a patronymic form, meaning "son of Hoole" or "belonging to Hoole")

Notable People:

• Elijah Hoole (1798-1872), a Wesleyan missionary and translator.
• Charles Hoole (1610-1667), an English schoolmaster and educational writer.