Hungerford (surname)
The surname Hungerford is an English toponymic surname, meaning it is derived from a place name. The place name Hungerford itself originates in Berkshire, England. The exact etymology of the place name is debated, but it is generally accepted to be Anglo-Saxon in origin. Common theories suggest it derives from Old English elements such as hungor meaning "lean, poor," combined with ford meaning "ford," suggesting a poor or shallow river crossing. Alternatively, it may be derived from a personal name combined with ford, although no definitive personal name has been identified.
Notable people with the surname Hungerford include:
- Anthony Hungerford (disambiguation): Several people with this name.
- Bridget Hungerford: A historical figure often associated with the Hungerford family.
- Charles Hungerford (disambiguation): Several people with this name.
- Sir Edward Hungerford (disambiguation): Several people with this name.
- Edmund Hungerford: Historical figure; often associated with the Hungerford family.
- Henry Hungerford: Historical figure; often associated with the Hungerford family.
- Jane Hungerford: Historical figure; often associated with the Hungerford family.
- John Hungerford (disambiguation): Several people with this name.
- Margaret Hungerford: A popular 19th-century Irish novelist who wrote under the pseudonym "The Duchess."
- Robert Hungerford (disambiguation): Several people with this name.
- Thomas Hungerford (disambiguation): Several people with this name.
- Walter Hungerford, 1st Baron Hungerford of Heytesbury: An English nobleman and soldier.
- Walter Hungerford, 1st Baron Hungerford of Farley: Another English nobleman and soldier, son of the above.
- Sir Walter Hungerford (disambiguation): Several people with this name.
- Hungerford Holdich: A British Army officer and Surveyor General of India.
The Hungerford family was a prominent English family, particularly in Wiltshire, with connections to notable historical events and figures. They held considerable land and influence over several centuries. The coat of arms associated with the Hungerford family typically features garbs (sheaves of wheat).