Surname Harding - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'H'
Unveiling the Hidden Heritage of the Harding Surname through iGENEA DNA Analysis
Embarking on a journey into my past with iGENEA's DNA analysis, I discovered my family name, Harding, is not simply a label but a reflection of my rich Anglo-Saxon and Viking lineage. The exploration revealed the heritage behind my surname, transforming it into a symbol of courage and exploration.
K. Harding
read moreHarding: What does the surname Harding mean?
Harding is an English surname derived from the Old English personal name "Hearding", itself coming from the Germanic name "Harding". The name is composed of the elements "hard", meaning hardy, brave or strong, and the suffix "-ing", denoting son or descendant. Thus, Harding can be interpreted as "son of the brave or strong one". It was a popular given name during the Middle Ages in England, largely due to the veneration of a 7th-century saint from Northumbria named St. Harding. The surname became hereditary among English families from the 13th century onwards, and several notable historical figures bore it, including Warren G. Harding, the 29th President of America. The name also saw variations across different cultures and languages; in Germany it evolved as "Hartung" while in Scandinavia it is found as "Hårding". Despite these variations, the core attributes associated with strength and bravery remain central to the name's identity.
Order DNA origin analysisHarding: Where does the name Harding come from?
The last name Harding is of Anglo-Saxon origin, largely associated with England. It is derived from the Old English personal name 'Hearding', which is a composition of the elements 'heard' meaning 'hard', 'brave' or 'strong', and 'ing' implying 'son of' or 'descendant of.' So, the surname essentially signifies 'son of the brave/strong one.'
This surname underwent several variations throughout history before settling into its modern spelling. Noteworthy historical figures include the 29th U.S. President, Warren G. Harding, and the famous American figure skater Tonya Harding.
Today, the surname Harding is commonly found in English-speaking countries, especially in England and the United States. It is also quite prevalent in Australia and Canada. Significant concentrations can be found in the southern and western counties of England, particularly in Herefordshire and Devon. In the United States, the largest numbers of people with the surname Harding live in California, Texas, and Florida. Despite its Anglo-Saxon roots, the name Harding is therefore widely dispersed across the globe in the present day.
Variations of the surname Harding
The Harding surname, of Old English origin, means "brave" or "hardy." Various spellings and variations have evolved over centuries, often due to geographical differences, dialects, or literacy levels.
Harding may be written as Hardinge, Hardin, Hardins, Hardying, Hardene, and Hording. It may also appear as Arding, especially in early records where 'H' was often dropped. The Scottish and Irish often used "MacHarding" to indicate "son of Harding." In some regions, it has morphed into Hadding, Haddins and Haddan.
Harding can also be spelled as a patronymic form such as "Harding's" or "Hardings," suggesting "son of Harding." Some surnames have possibly evolved from derivative nicknames like Hardy, Hardman, or Hardiman, alluding to the characteristics associated with Harding.
In the 1881 UK census, the highest number of people with the Harding surname was found in Wiltshire, suggesting a strong geographic origin or cluster. This may have led to localized spelling variants.
In continental Europe, equivalents such as Härting (Germany), Hardin (France), or Harting (Denmark) are quite common. The primary versions remain fairly consistent, although each culture has possibly adapted it to fit their language and phonetics.
Famous people with the name Harding
- Warren G. Harding: The 29th President of the United States from 1921 until his untimely death in 1923.
- Tonya Harding: The controversial former professional figure skater. She was banned for life from the U.S. Figure Skating Association due to her involvement in an attack on fellow skater, Nancy Kerrigan.
- Dan Harding: An English footballer who made several appearances in the English Premier League and Championship.
- Sarah Harding: British singer, model, and actress best known as a member of the pop group Girls Aloud.
- Karl R. Harding: American astronomer who discovered three asteroids throughout his career.
- Ian Harding: An American actor best known for his role as Ezra Fitz on the television series Pretty Little Liars.
- Lyn Harding: A Welsh actor who appeared in both British and Hollywood films in the early 20th century.
- Emily Harding: British fashion model and TV personality who competed in the reality series Britain's Next Top Model.
- Stephen Harding: An English monk and abbot, one of the founders of the Cistercian Order. He was canonized as a saint.
- Amanda Harding: A British actress who was known for her roles in 80s TV series and movies.