Last Name Yon

The surname Yon is of Old French origin and is derived from various sources. One of the primary origins is from a diminutive form of the given name Jean (John) which was a popular name among the Normans who invaded England in 1066. Another possible source is from the Old Norse name Jón, which means "the Lord is gracious." The surname Yon could also be topographic in nature, derived from the Old French word 'jonc' meaning rush or reed, indicating a person who lived near such vegetation. However, it's important to note that surnames often have multiple origins and regional variations, so the exact origin of a specific Yon family may differ depending on their particular lineage.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Yon

The meaning and origin of the last name Yon

The surname Yon originates from various sources, predominantly of French and Hebrew descent. In French, "Yon" is a diminutive form of Jean, which means 'God is gracious'. It emerged as a nickname for those who were considered youthful or lively versions of Jean.

In Hebrew, Yon (יונה) is a masculine given name meaning 'dove', also serving as a biblical name referring to the prophet Jonah. In this context, the surname could have been derived from a person named Jonah or a nickname based on personal characteristics associated with doves, such as peacefulness or gentleness.

Over time, the surname Yon has spread across Europe due to immigration and migration patterns. It has become a common surname in France, Israel, and among Jewish communities worldwide.

Geographical distribution of the last name Yon

The surname Yon is predominantly found in France and Switzerland, with significant concentrations in both countries. In France, it originates from the region of Franche-Comté and has since spread to other parts of the country. The name is also common in the Rhône-Alpes region, particularly in cities like Lyon, which might have contributed to its widespread use in France. In Switzerland, Yon is found mostly in the western part of the country, especially in the cantons of Vaud and Geneva. It's worth noting that the name can also be found in smaller numbers across other European countries due to migrations over centuries. The diaspora has further spread the surname Yon to North America, particularly in Canada and the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Yon

The surname Yon has various spelling and pronunciation variations due to transcription errors and regional differences over time. Some common versions include Jon, Jone, Joann, Joan, Jeans, Jeanes, and Jayne, which may be derived from the same original name. Additionally, some families of French origin have changed their surname from Yon to Jones as a result of English phonetic adaptation or anglicization. These variations represent different branches of the family name, each with its unique history and heritage. It is essential to consider these variations when researching genealogy or family history, as they may provide valuable information about the origins and migrations of Yon/Jones descendants.

Famous people with the last name Yon

Notable individuals with the surname Yon include:

1. David Yon, an American long-distance runner and author who has competed in numerous marathons and served as the president of the Tallahassee Track Club.

2. Mira Sorvino Yonover, an Academy Award-winning American actress known for her roles in films such as Mighty Aphrodite, Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion, and Quiz Show.

3. Ron Yon, a South Korean professional StarCraft II player who has competed in numerous tournaments and events.

4. Shane Yon, an American football player who played as a linebacker for the University of Michigan Wolverines and was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2013 NFL Draft.

5. Tina Yon, a Korean-American actress who has appeared in various films and television shows, including The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and NCIS.

6. Yon Sung-won, a South Korean politician who served as the Prime Minister of South Korea from 2013 to 2014.

These individuals have made significant contributions in various fields such as sports, entertainment, and politics.

Genealogical research on the last name Yon

The surname Yon is of Old French origin, derived from the personal name Jon or Jean. It emerged as a hereditary surname during the High Middle Ages, particularly in regions such as Normandy and Picardy. The Norman conquest of England in 1066 led to the spread of this surname among the Anglo-Norman nobility, where it became a common name. Over time, variations like Jonas, Jean, Johannes, and Giovanni have arisen due to linguistic changes and regional influences. In Scotland, Yon is primarily found in areas settled by Normans, such as Lothian and Borders, while in England, it is most prevalent in the south and east. In North America, Yon is prominent in regions with strong British and French-Canadian settlement, particularly in Canada's Quebec province and the eastern United States. Today, individuals with the surname Yon can be found across the globe.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Yon"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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