Surname Downing - Meaning and Origin

Downing: What does the surname Downing mean?

Downing is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from a geographical locality 'at the down or hill', specifically referring to a place that is characterized by hills or elevated terrains. The term "down" in Old English typically referred to a hill. Thus, the surname might have initially been given to families residing in or near such area. In some cases, it may also be a patronymic surname meaning "son of Dunn," with "Dunn" being an old personal name derived from a term signifying 'brown' or 'dark-colored.' Over time, the surname Downing has undergone varying evolutions but the original meaning stays primarily relating to geography. It is worth noting that Downing Street in London, where the British Prime Minister resides, is known worldwide and has likely contributed to the recognition of this surname.

Downing: Where does the name Downing come from?

The surname Downing is of Anglo-Saxon origin and has a couple of potential sources. It may have derived from the Old English term 'dūn' meaning 'hill' combined with 'ing', a patronymic suffix, to denote 'people of the hill'. Alternatively, Downing could refer to "son of Dunn"; "Dunn" being a medieval English personal name. The first recorded spelling of this English family name, Downing, is found in the late 13th century in County Norfolk, England. There were Downings recorded in the "Feet of Fines for Essex" in 1320.

In the 17th century, Emmanuel Downing, a lawyer from England, immigrated to Massachusetts, U.S., tracing the roots of the Downing surname in America. Sir George Downing, 1st Baronet, after whom Downing Street in London is named, is another notable bearer of the surname.

Today, the Downing surname is relatively common in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The highest concentration of people with the Downing surname is found in the United States followed by England.

Variations of the surname Downing

The surname Downing originates from the Celtic-Gaelic culture and is believed to be derived from the term "dun", meaning "hill". Additionally, it is supposed to have descended from the Irish name O'Dunaing or O'Dunain.

There are several variants and alternate spellings for the surname Downing, owing to regional dialects and pronunciations. These include: Dounyng, Douning, Downinge, Doning, Downeyng, Douneing, and Dovvning. In some cases, it has been altered into names like Duning and Downey.

An old common spelling of the name is 'Dunning' which can still be seen today. The surname Dunning is another patronymic variant mainly used in ancient Scotland. The names Downin, Downon are also thought to be forms of the surname, often mistaken as separate surnames.

It is important to note the use of the prefix “O’” as O’Downing or O’Doning, common in Irish surnames representing descent. The use of the prefix has however seen a decline over the years due to Anglicization. The surnames Downe, Downer, Downes, and Downs may also be derivatives of Downing.

Famous people with the name Downing

• Al Downing: An American major league pitcher and broadcaster.
• Will Downing: An American jazz and R&B singer.
• Brian Downing: A former professional American baseball player.
• Malcolm Downing: A professional British football player.
• David Downing: An American author known for his spy thriller novels.
• John Downing: A British photojournalist who has captured several iconic photos.
• Jack Downing: Former captain in U.S. The Army during the War of 1812.
• Andrew Jackson Downing: American landscape designer and architect.
• Kirk Downing: A professional Canadian soccer player.
• Benjamin Downing: An American politician from Massachusetts.
• Joan Downing: An Australian swimmer and Olympic athlete.
• Paul Downing: An English professional footballer.
• Johnny Downing: A legendary New England runner.
• Phineas Downing: American oarsman and gold medal winner in the 1952 Olympics.
• Skye Downing: A South African cricketer.
• Cliff Downing: An English professional rugby player.
• Finley Downing: An American football player.

Other surnames

Downie