Last Name Bonner

The surname "Bonner" has multiple origins and can be of English, Irish, or German origin. 1. English Origin: In England, "Bonner" is an occupational surname derived from the Old French word "bonnier" or "bounier," meaning a collector or administrator of taxes or rents. It was used to describe someone who collected bonnage or rent payments on behalf of the landowner. 2. Irish Origin: In Ireland, the surname "Bonner" is an anglicized version of the Gaelic surname "Ó Boinn," which was primarily found in County Donegal. It is derived from the word "bonn," meaning "sole" or "base," suggesting that the original surname bearers may have been cobblers or shoemakers. 3. German Origin: "Bonner" may also have German origins. It can be derived from the Germanic personal name "Bonhari" or "Banheri," composed of elements such as "bon," meaning "good" or "noble," and "hari," meaning "army" or "warrior." It is important to note that surnames can have various origins, and the specific origin of any given surname may differ from one individual or family to another. The best way to determine the origin of a particular "Bonner" surname would be to research the ancestral roots of the specific family in question.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bonner

The meaning and origin of the last name Bonner

The surname Bonner has both English and Scottish origins. In England, it is derived from the Old French word "boner" or "bonnaire," meaning "someone who behaves in a good-natured or cheerful manner." This name likely originated as a nickname for an amiable person or someone known for their pleasant disposition. The Scottish variation of the surname has a different etymology. It is derived from the location name "Bonar," which in turn derives from the Gaelic words "bonn" and "air," meaning "foot" and "of the loch," respectively. This suggests that individuals with the Scottish surname Bonner likely had ancestors who lived near a loch or lake. Over time, as surnames became hereditary, variations of the name eventually emerged, including Bonnar, Bonar, and Bonner. Today, individuals with the surname Bonner can be found worldwide, with notable bearers making contributions in various fields such as music, sports, and literature.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bonner

The last name Bonner has a diverse geographical distribution. Primarily, it is associated with English-speaking countries, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, Bonner is most common in the southern states, such as Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas, where it can be traced back to the early settlers who migrated from England. In the United Kingdom, the name is prevalent in England, especially in the northern regions like Yorkshire and Durham. Additionally, Bonner can also be found in other English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where migration patterns and historical ties with the United Kingdom have led to its spread. However, the name is not limited to these countries alone. It can also be found in other parts of the world due to factors like migration, instances of name adoption or changes over time, making the distribution of the name geographically varied.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bonner

The surname Bonner has several variations and spelling variations. Some common variations include Bonner, Boner, Bonners, Bonnars, Bonnard, Bonnaire, and Bonnar. These variations can be attributed to different factors such as phonetic spellings, regional accents, or official clerical errors during record-keeping processes. Each variant may represent a different branch or variation of the name originating from different parts of the world or from different historical periods. Additionally, surname spellings can change over time due to cultural influences or migration patterns. For instance, variations like Bonner and Boner might be more prevalent in English-speaking countries, while Bonnard and Bonnaire could be associated with French or Francophone regions. It is essential to consider these spelling variations when researching genealogy or historical records to ensure accurate identification and understanding of the family name's origins.

Famous people with the last name Bonner

One famous person with the last name Bonner is Michael Bonner, an inspiring educator from North Carolina. Known for his innovative teaching methods, Bonner gained recognition when a video of his fifth-grade students performing a choreographed routine went viral. His dedication to his students' success and his unique approach to education led to various opportunities, including guest appearances on national television shows and speaking engagements at educational conferences. Bonner's passion for teaching transformed the lives of countless students and highlighted the importance of nurturing creativity and individuality within the classroom.

Another notable figure with the last name Bonner is Matt Bonner, a former professional basketball player. Born in New Hampshire, Bonner had a successful career playing in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for over a decade. As a sharpshooting power forward, Bonner was known for his exceptional three-point shooting skills, often dubbed "The Red Rocket" due to his vibrant red hair. He played for various teams, including the Toronto Raptors and the San Antonio Spurs, winning two NBA Championships with the latter. Bonner's contributions to the sport, along with his amiable personality both on and off the court, made him a beloved figure among basketball fans.

Genealogical research on the last name Bonner

The surname Bonner has its origins in Ireland and Scotland, derived from the Gaelic word "bonnair" meaning "gentle" or "courteous." The name is considered to have been primarily locational, with several places across Ireland and Scotland having been called Bonar or Bonner. The Bonner family spread across various parts of these countries, and later, some branches migrated to different regions such as England, the United States, or Australia. Within these regions, the Bonner family thrived over generations, and various notable individuals emerged. Researching the genealogy of the Bonner name reveals a diverse lineage, including esteemed professionals, scholars, and notable figures in politics and sports. Through the examination of birth records, census data, and family trees, one can trace the ancestral roots and historical journey of the Bonner family, contributing to a better understanding of their heritage and legacy.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Bonner"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends