Last Name Bunnell

The last name "Bunnell" is of English origin. It is a locational surname derived from the place name "Bunnel" or "Bunwell" in Norfolk, England. The place name itself is believed to come from the Old English words "bune" meaning "reed" and "well(a)" meaning "spring" or "stream." Over time, individuals who hailed from Bunwell or had associations with the place came to be known by the surname "Bunnell."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bunnell

The meaning and origin of the last name Bunnell

The surname Bunnell is of English origin and has a meaning that is linked to rabbits or hares. It is derived from the Middle English word "bune" or "bunne," which refers to a rabbit or hare as it was commonly hunted for food in medieval times. The addition of the suffix "-ell" indicates a diminutive form or a small rabbit. Therefore, the surname Bunnell could have been initially bestowed upon someone who had a connection to rabbits, such as a skilled hunter or a seller of rabbit meat. Alternatively, it might have been a nickname given to an individual who possessed characteristics associated with rabbits, like agility or swiftness. Over time, the surname Bunnell spread across different parts of England and subsequently expanded to other English-speaking countries through migration. As with many surnames, variations of Bunnell may have emerged over the years, resulting in slight alterations in spelling depending on regional dialects or personal preference.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bunnell

The surname Bunnell has a relatively limited geographical distribution, primarily found in the United States. The majority of individuals with this last name reside in the state of Utah, particularly in Washington County. This can be attributed to the early settlement of Mormon pioneers in the region, who played a significant role in the establishment and development of various communities. The Bunnell surname is also found in neighboring states such as Nevada and Arizona, suggesting migration patterns within the region. Outside of the American Southwest, the name Bunnell can be found in smaller numbers across the United States, with concentrations in states like California, Texas, and New York. The distribution is less prevalent in other countries, although there may be some individuals with the surname in Canada and the United Kingdom, likely due to migration or family connections. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Bunnell is primarily centered in the southwestern United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bunnell

The last name Bunnell is relatively less common and therefore does not have a wide range of variations or spellings. However, there are a few possible variations that may occur due to different regional dialects or personal preferences. One possible variation could be Bonnell, where the "u" is replaced with an "o." Another variation could be Bunnel, where the second "n" is removed. Spellings such as Bunnelle or Bunell could also occasionally be encountered, but they are relatively less common. It is worth noting that the surname Bunnell has its roots in English origins and may have been derived from a place name or occupational name associated with rabbits or bunnies. Despite the limited variations, the primary spelling of Bunnell remains commonly used and recognized.

Famous people with the last name Bunnell

One famous individual with the last name Bunnell is Dewey Bunnell, a renowned musician and songwriter. He is best known as the co-founder and guitarist of the iconic band America. Born on January 19, 1952, in England, Bunnell's distinctive voice and melodic guitar skills have contributed to America's success, with hits like "A Horse with No Name" and "Ventura Highway." His songwriting talents and ability to craft catchy, heartfelt tunes have solidified his place in music history. Another notable figure with the last name Bunnell is Justin Bunnell, an accomplished athlete. He rose to fame as a champion wrestler and holder of multiple national titles. Considered one of the greatest wrestlers of his generation, Bunnell's dedication and skill have made him an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide. Through their respective fields, Dewey Bunnell and Justin Bunnell have left their mark on popular music and sports, showcasing the diverse talents of individuals bearing the name Bunnell.

Genealogical research on the last name Bunnell

The last name Bunnell is an English surname that can be traced back to ancient times. It originated from the occupation of "bunel" or "bonel," which referred to a maker or dealer of drinking vessels or a bone dealer. The earliest recorded instance of the name can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, where a William Bunel is listed as a landowner in Bedfordshire, England. Throughout the centuries, the Bunnell family spread to various regions of England, including Devon, Somerset, and London. Over time, some members of the Bunnell family migrated to other parts of the world, particularly to the United States and Canada. Today, there are many Bunnell families found predominantly in the United States, especially in areas of New England and the Midwest. Genealogical research on the Bunnell surname can reveal a rich history of English heritage and the descendants who have made their mark across the globe.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Bunnell"
• 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

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