Surname Goings - Meaning and Origin

Goings: What does the surname Goings mean?

The last name Goings is believed to have Anglo-Saxon origins from the early Middle Ages. It's likely derived from the Old English verb "gangan" meaning "to go." Over centuries, it turned into various forms including 'Gowinge', and finally, 'Goings'. So, essentially, the surname could refer to an ancestor who was known for his movements, travelling or 'going' about for trade, exploration, or other activities. Like many other surnames, Goings could also signify a geographical area where the first bearers of the name may have resided. It's important to note that surnames evolved over centuries and were influenced by various factors such as local dialects, literacy level, geographical diversity, etc. Hence, determining an exact origin and meaning can be challenging. Goings is not a very common surname, but it is more frequently encountered in the United States compared to other parts of the world.

Goings: Where does the name Goings come from?

The surname Goings primarily has English and Irish origins. It is believed to have derived from the medieval English personal name "Goding", which was itself derived from an Old English pre 7th Century term "God(g)in", loosely translated as "Good friend". The name could also be derived from the Irish surname "Goings", an anglicized form of the Gaelic "Ó Gaibhtheacháin", meaning "descendant of Gaibhtheach", a personal name meaning "dangerous".

As for where it is common today, there isn't much specific data available. However, like many other British Isles-originated surnames, we can consider that it might be more widespread in countries that have seen significant migration from those areas over the centuries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Additionally, in these countries, it is likely to be spread across different regions rather than being uniquely popular or common in one specific area.

Variations of the surname Goings

The surname "Goings" is of English origin and is primarily derived from a patronymic form of the medieval name Go(i)n, which is a shortened nickname-type derivation of the name Gawain. This Medieval knightly name is also sometimes pronounced as Goz, Gon, or Gone depending on different locales in England.

The spelling variations of Goings can be numerous. These include Goins, Goynes, Goens, Goin, Going, Goen, Gowen, Gowin, Goynes, Gowans, Gowan, Gowens, Gowing, Gowring, and Goyne. The differences in spelling can often be due to phonetic spellings by recording clerks, misspellings, or regional pronunciation differences.

As for related surnames, they can also include Gawain, Gawen, and Gavain as they share the same root origin. It's also worth noting that the change and variations of these names can often be influenced by immigration and different translation spellings from other languages into English. This means that similar surnames can exist in French, Welsh, or other languages that have a common origin with the English phonetic sounds and spellings.

Famous people with the name Goings

• Charles Goings: Known as Chuck Goings, he is a notable American radio personality and program director who served the radio industry for over four decades, most prominently at WRIF in Detroit.
• Thomas M. Goings: He was a veteran of the American Civil War on the Union side who survived the infamous Andersonville Prison, known for its inhumane conditions. He later authored a book on his experiences.
• John Goings: A respected southeastern direction artist who is specifically known for his picturesque landscape artwork.
• Roger W. Goings: A reputed American businessman described as a strategic leader with significant experience in corporate finance.
• Nathan Goings: A well-known professional football player from the United States. Remember that the fame level of these people varies. Some are widely recognized, while others are only well-known in their particular field or region.

Other surnames

Going