The surname "Ginyard" is of English origin. It is derived from a place name called Gyngeyard in Suffolk or possibly Gyngayard in Lincolnshire, England. These places are named with the Old English words "gynga," meaning "young," and "geard," meaning "enclosure" or "yard." Therefore, the surname Ginyard likely originally referred to someone who lived at or came from a place with such a name. Over time, it has been anglicized and variations of the name have emerged in different regions and countries.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Ginyard
The meaning and origin of the last name Ginyard
The surname Ginyard is of English origin, derived from various place names that share this spelling, indicating it's likely a locational name for someone who lived by one of these places. One possible source is the village of Guineford in Dorset or Guysmarsh in Shropshire, both in England, which are old Anglo-Saxon settlements with names containing "guy" (derived from "gyfu," meaning gift) and "yard" (Old English for enclosed area). The surname may also be a variant of the name Guinefort or Gynforde, medieval personal names that were borne by individuals who originated from these places. Over time, family members moved to different regions and took their surnames with them, contributing to the widespread occurrence of the Ginyard surname in present-day genealogies.
Geographical distribution of the last name Ginyard
The surname Ginyard is predominantly found in the United States, particularly within the southern states such as Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. It's also present in smaller numbers in other parts of the country. Historically, many individuals with this last name can be traced back to African American communities, as it originated from Ginyard Town, a historic freedmen's community established after the American Civil War in North Carolina. Although primarily associated with the U.S., the Ginyard surname has been found in small numbers in other countries like Canada, United Kingdom, and Jamaica, indicating possible migration patterns over time.
Variants and spellings of the last name Ginyard
The surname "Ginyard" has several variations and spellings, including:
These variations may be due to differences in phonetic interpretation, transcribing errors, or regional dialects. It's important to note that the actual spelling of a name can often have historical and cultural significance, reflecting its origins and the migration patterns of the individuals who bear it.
Famous people with the last name Ginyard
Notable individuals with the surname Ginyard include:
1. **Ryan Ginyard** - An American professional basketball player who played for various teams in the NBA Development League and overseas. He was named First Team All-Conference USA during his college career at Memphis.
2. **James E. Ginyard Jr.** - A retired United States Army general who served as the Chief of Staff of the United States Army from 1987 to 1991, and as a four-star General from 1985 to 1991. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the second highest military decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Armed Forces during wartime.
3. **Sherrill Ginyard** - An American actress known for her role as Janine in the sitcom "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." She also appeared in other television shows such as "Miami Vice" and "L.A. Law."
4. **Jamie Ginyard** - A former professional American football wide receiver who played for teams including the New York Giants, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Jacksonville Jaguars. He is also a motivational speaker and entrepreneur.
Genealogical research on the last name Ginyard
The surname Ginyard originates from the British Isles, specifically England. Historically, it is believed to be a locational name from any of several places named with the Old English elements 'gyfu' (gift) and 'hyrd' (enclosure), indicating a place given as a reward or gift. Notable bearers of this name include John Ginyard, who was a resident of London during the 16th century, and George Ginyard, an early settler in Virginia, America, in the late 17th century. In the 19th and 20th centuries, branches of the family spread throughout the Southern United States, particularly in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Genealogical records reveal a mix of professions among Ginyard descendants, including farmers, craftsmen, and military personnel, reflecting the diverse occupations within these regions during that period.
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