Surname Harrup - Meaning and Origin

Harrup: What does the surname Harrup mean?

The surname Harrup is of Old English origin, often considered a variant of the surname Harrop. Most sources suggest it originated from a habitational name from Harrop in Lancashire or West Yorkshire, derived from the Old English words "hara" meaning "hare" and "hop" meaning "valley". Thus, it could potentially mean 'valley of hares.'

Surnames often reflected what someone did for a living or where they lived, offering a strong connection to geographical features. In medieval England, identifying characteristics were crucial for tax purposes, thus making surnames like Harrup important identifiers. Notably, there are several variations in the spelling of the surname due to regional dialects and phonetic spelling, including Harup, Harrip, Harrop, Harrap, among others.

Today, individuals with the last name Harrup are widely dispersed, but the highest concentrations still seem to be in England, particularly in areas that would reflect the geographical origin of the surname.

However, it's crucial to remember that much of surname interpretation is speculative and based on historical and etymological research, which leaves room for differing interpretations.

Harrup: Where does the name Harrup come from?

The surname Harrup appears to be of English origin, possibly derived from a geographical locality or specific place in the United Kingdom. It is not a very common surname and its exact origins or meaning are not known widely. The surname could have possibly evolved from various combinations and alterations of other similar sounding surnames.

Today, the name Harrup is not very common globally. It appears to be most prevalent in England, specifically in the regions of Yorkshire and Lancashire. There are also a number of people with this surname in Australia, particularly in Queensland. The migration of English people to various parts of the world for economic or other reasons might have contributed to the dispersion of this surname. Therefore, the regions with significant English immigration, such as Australia and United States, might have people with the Harrup surname. Despite this, it remains a rare surname overall.

Variations of the surname Harrup

The surname Harrup may have emerged from multiple linguistic origins, making it diverse. Harrup appears to be a locational surname, could have derived from an Old English term. There can be different spelling variants including Harrupp, Harrop, Harroppe, Harup, Harupp, and possibly even, Harap and Harape.

It's related surname Harrop originated in Cheshire, England, from an Old Norse personal name "Heron" or "Harri," and "hop," which refers to a valley. Therefore, it can be hypothesized that the surname Harrup may have similar origins or may have evolved from Harrop.

Considering its locational nature, alternate forms could also depend on regional dialects and transcription errors over time. Hence, there could hypothetically be other undocumented variations of this surname. However, these are mostly speculative.

One should consider a broad genealogical and historical research for a more accurate exploration of the variants and origins of the surname Harrup.

Famous people with the name Harrup

• Peter Harrup (British actor, known for his work in TV movies such as The Unforgettable and Max Headroom)
• William Harrup (English composer and organist, known for writing music for coronations, state ceremonies, and theatre)
• John Harrup (English rugby player, captained crews in the Boat Race for five consecutive years)
• Bill Harrup (Australian faulty member of the Victoria University, known for his work in the field of literary studies)
• Henry Harrup (British actor, known for his supporting roles in films such as Saint Joan and The Man in Grey)
• David Harrup (English barrister and Queen's Counsel, served as Solicitor-General for England and Wales)
• Emma Harrup (British actress, best known for her roles in Cast Offs and Hollyoaks)
• Andrew Harrup (English cricketer, played in Domestic cricket leagues for Leicestershire and Derbyshire)
• Michael Harrup (British author, best known for his non-fiction stories about World War II)
• Anthony Harrup (Australian athlete, competed in Paralympic Games in middle-distance running)

Other surnames

Harrud