Surname Conover - Meaning and Origin

Embracing a Diverse Heritage: A Personal Revelation From My iGENEA DNA Test

The iGENEA DNA test was an enlightening journey into the past, unfolding the Scandinavian origin of the Conover surname, and my diverse European family identity. It not only redefined my understanding of my roots but also transformed my view of our interconnectedness in the larger historical context.

S. Conover

Conover: What does the surname Conover mean?

The surname Conover is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is derived from the Old Norse personal name "Kunnr" which means "astute" or "wise." The name indicates the son or the descendant of Kunnr. It could also have geographical origins, referring to a person from a location named after Kunnr. It was first found in Yorkshire, England where the Conover family lived prior to migrating to America in the mid-17th century. Over the years, the name has undergone various spelling alterations. The Dutch variant of this surname is Coenraad. Despite its different spellings, the meaning of the surname Conover has remained consistent, implying wisdom, knowledge, or aptitude.

Conover: Where does the name Conover come from?

The last name Conover is of Dutch origin, derived from the name "Coen Houver" which means “brave" or "daring.” It was Anglicized to “Conover” when Dutch immigrants settled in America, around the 17th century, primarily in the region of New Netherlands, now known as New York and New Jersey. In terms of its distribution today, Conover is still common in the United States, especially in the states of New Jersey, Ohio, and Indiana. As surnames continue to spread due to the globalization and movement of people, the name can also be found in individuals worldwide. However, the highest concentration of individuals with the Conover surname remains in the United States.

Variations of the surname Conover

The surname Conover has multiple variants and spellings due to its evolution over time and the influence of different cultures and languages. These include Conner, Conor, Kohner, Koner, Coner, and Cunover. The original Dutch spelling of the name was Coenraedt which was Anglicized to Conover when Dutch settlers immigrated to the United States.

The name has its origin in the old Dutch word "Koene", which means brave, and "raad", meaning counsel. Therefore, Conover could be translated to mean "brave counsel" or "wise and brave".

Other surnames of the same origin might include similar Dutch surnames such as Coen, Raad, or other names created by combining attributes like "brave" or "wise" with other features, roles, or occupations. Examples could include De Raad, Raadt, Rademaker (counsel maker), or Koenen (brave ones).

Though Conover is a unique surname, it is not attached to large lineage. Nonetheless, several notable individuals share this name such as Willis Van Devanter, Peter Van Brugh, and William Conover. Overall, the variations of the Conover name reflect its rich history and Dutch origin.

Famous people with the name Conover

• Adam Conover: Conover is a well-known comedian, writer, and television host, most known for his work on the TruTV show, "Adam Ruins Everything."
• Emerson Spartz: Born Emerson B. Conover, Spartz is an internet entrepreneur who founded the website MuggleNet, a major Harry Potter fan site.
• Job Conover: 19th-century professional baseball player who played for the Brooklyn Atlantics.
• Sharon Conover: An American politician who served as a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
• Willis S. Conover: He was a prominent American jazz producer, broadcaster on Voice of America for over 40 years. He produced jazz concerts at the White House and the Newport Jazz Festival.
• Conover Kennard: Also known as Anne Thompson, she is a writer and actress, known for Disorderlies (1987).
• Leona Gage: Born Mary Leona Gage, she was an American actress, model and beauty queen who was Miss USA 1957.
• Richard Conover: Is a herpetologist with a snake genus named after him (Conophis).
• Marie Conover: Prominent 20th-century American violinist who performed for two American Presidents and the Queen of England.
• Tom Conover: Former NFL player from the San Diego Chargers and Philadelphia Eagles.

Other surnames

Conovich