Surname Hockner - Meaning and Origin
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Hockner: What does the surname Hockner mean?
The last name Hockner is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German term “Hockenare”, which translates to mean “rooster”. It is thought to have evolved from “Höck”, an Old High German word meaning “ridge”, and “er” meaning “one who performs”. Therefore, initially, it was likely a nickname for someone who lived on top of a ridge or hill or, perhaps, someone with a cocky nature. It is possible, however, that the name came about independent of the meaning of “Hockenare” - as a form of hypochorism for names beginning with “Hoch-”, such as “Hochmann” (High man).
Today, Hockner is a relatively rare surname, found throughout Germany primarily, but also scattered in other European countries. It is a relatively uncommon name in the United States, but not unheard of. Overall, the name Hockner is a simple one, with a symbolic reference to something as common as a rooster, but its true origin is difficult to trace.
Order DNA origin analysisHockner: Where does the name Hockner come from?
The last name Hockner is not particularly common today; however, it does have some presence in a few countries. This surname is most frequently found in the United States, particularly on the East Coast, in Canada, specifically in Ontario and Quebec, as well as in Germany.
According to House of Names, the surname Hockner likely derives from the Middle High German words “hock” or “hoc” which mean “rock” or “cliff.” This suggests that the earliest holders of the Hockner surname likely lived by a cliff or rock. The earliest record of the surname dates back to August 30, 1493, Johannes Hockner of Wurzburg, Germany.
The Social Security Administration estimates that there were fewer than 500 people with the last name Hockner living in the United States in the year 2020. This suggests that the surname is not hugely widespread.
In the United States, most people with this surname are descended from William Hockner, who arrived from Germany in the 1700s. In Canada, people with the last name Hockner are mostly concentrated in Ontario and Quebec; it is likely that these individuals are descended from French-Canadians. Meanwhile, the majority of those with the surname Hockner in Germany likely live in Hesse, Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and Lower Saxony.
Overall, the last name Hockner is not a particularly common name today; however, it is still present in several countries, mostly in the United States, Canada, and Germany. It is likely that these individuals are descended from individuals who lived by a rock or cliff centuries ago.
Variations of the surname Hockner
The surname Hockner is one of many derived from the Germanic name "Hauken." It is an occupational surname and indicates the original bearer was likely a worker in the construction field. Spelling variations of this surname include Hochner, Hochnerr, Hockner, Hockener, Hoeckner, Hoeckener, Hauckner, Hauckener, Hauken, Haukener, Hahner, Hahnens, and many others.
Hockner is an Anglicised version of the German word "Hocken," which means "limp" or "crouch." It is believed this name was most likely given as a paternal nickname for a person with a physical disability. Alternate spellings such as Hahn, Haan, and Hahen, are likely derived from this association.
In German-speaking countries such as Austria, Switzerland, Germany and the Czech Republic, the name is typically spelled Hoeckner or Höckner. In Finland, the name is spelled Häkkinen, and in Poland, it is spelled Hawkin.
Variant spellings of the name Hockner can also be found in surrounding countries such as Hungary, Ukraine, Belgium, and the Netherlands. These alternative spellings include Hahnick, Hahneck, Hahenker, Hakenholzer, and Hochkiner.
The popularity of Hockner as a surname is unique to the United States, which sees many immigrants from German-speaking countries that have moved and settled. Over time, the surname can be seen in cultural variations or "Americanized" versions, such as Hawkner, Hockner, and Hocknerman. In the U.S., the name has also been shortened to simply and affectionately, "Hock."
Famous people with the name Hockner
- Maggie Hockner: Maggie Hockner is a digital illustrator and lifestyle photographer based in the Greater Boston Area. Her work has been featured in Boston Magazine, USA Today, and more.
- Amanda Hockner: Amanda is a successful life and leadership coach who has been featured by Forbes, NPR, and more. She is also the founder of The Leadership Den, an organization that provides customized leadership and personal growth experiences.
- Andrew Hockner: Andrew is a well-known playwright and screenwriter who has won awards for his work. His plays and movies, such as The People’s Constable and After the Fire, have been performed and shown around the world.
- Joseph Hockner: Joseph is a prominent paleontologist and scientific analyst who works for the National History Museum of Australia. His research focuses on the study of ancient and modern vertebrates, as well as human evolution.
- Fred Hockner: Fred is an actor and voice artist who has worked in both television and film. He is best known for his roles in theatre productions and his work in cartoons such as SpongeBob SquarePants and The Powerpuff Girls.
- Douglas Hockner: Douglas is a professional chef and restaurateur based in New York City. He is the owner of several acclaimed restaurants across the city and has been featured by many food and lifestyle publications.