Surname Garner - Meaning and Origin

Tracing Ancestry Through iGENEA DNA Test: Unfolding the Garner Legacy

Undergoing an iGENEA DNA test, the unveiling of my genetic history conclusively shifted my perception of my family name Garner. It enforced a journey into the past beyond conventional family tales, reconstructed my views of my cultural, religious, and professional identity, and imbued me with a deeper sense of belonging.

I. Garner

Garner: What does the surname Garner mean?

The surname Garner is of ancient Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from an occupational name for a granary keeper, someone who managed the storehouse for corn. It comes from the Middle English term "gerner" or "garner," which in turn has roots in the Old French "gernier", itself from the Latin "granarium", a derivative of "granum" meaning "grain". It was a surname typically associated with the steward of a medieval monastery or manor house, who was in charge of the provisions and supplies. Hence, it is a classic example of a surname that was taken from the principal job or occupation of the original bearer. However, it could also mean "spear" from the German word ‘garn’. Over the centuries, the family name Garner has made many distinguished contributions in different corners of the world and has been marked by outstanding members of society and their significant careers and contributions to their communities.

Garner: Where does the name Garner come from?

The surname Garner is of Norman origin and was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest in the 11th century. The name is derived from the Old French word "gernier" or "garnier" which means a storehouse for grain or a granary. This suggests that the original bearers of the name likely managed granaries.

Over the centuries, the surname has spread to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Today, it is most common in the United States, specifically in the southern states like Texas, according to the website Forebears. The same source notes that Garner is also fairly common in England (where it ranks 572nd) and Australia (where it ranks 761st). Historically, the Garner family has held a family seat in Cheshire, England. Despite its English origins, the surname can also be found in some other countries, albeit less commonly. For example, Forebears ranks Garner as the 14,757th most common surname in France and the 8,476th most common surname in Germany.

Variations of the surname Garner

The surname Garner is derived from the old French "gernier" which refers to a granary or store for grain. This occupation-based surname has several known spelling variations and cognates due to regional dialect differences and translation between languages over the centuries.

Common variants and spellings include Garnier, Gerner, Garnar, Garnor, Garnyr, and Garnere. In some cases, transcriptions and phonetic spellings such as Garnhar or Garnhor may also occur.

The surname Garner may also be linked to the German surname Gartner, meaning a gardener, and its variant spellings like Gärtner, Gartener, and Gaertner. This connection may exist due to similar pronunciation and older, less standardized spelling practices.

Surnames of the same origin often share roots and similar meanings, reflecting common professions or roles within a community. Therefore, Garner may have links to other occupational surnames such as Miller, Baker, or Mason.

Please note that surname origins and meanings can be complex and varied, influenced by factors like geographical region, language, culture, and history. Therefore, the above variants and origins should be used as a general guide rather than a definitive list.

Famous people with the name Garner

• Jennifer Garner: An accomplished Hollywood actress known for her roles in "Alias", "13 Going on 30", and "Dallas Buyers Club".
• James Garner: A late actor who received several awards for his performances in films like "The Great Escape" and "Murphy's Romance". He's also known for his roles in TV series like "Maverick" and "The Rockford Files".
• Peggy Ann Garner: A late actress who won a special Academy Juvenile Award for her work in "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn".
• Kelli Garner: An American actress who has appeared in several films and TV series, including "The Aviator" and "Pan Am".
• Joel Garner: Former West Indian cricketer, known as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history.
• Erica Garner: An American civil rights activist and critic of police brutality; she is the daughter of Eric Garner, who died from a chokehold during an arrest by the New York City Police.
• Scott Garner: An English professional footballer who has played for various clubs in the English Football League.
• Thomas Garner: An English Gothic Revival architect noted for his work on numerous churches and other religious buildings.
• Shayne Garner: A retired professional ice hockey player.
• Alan Garner: An English author of fantasy and children's novels.

Other surnames

Garnelis