Hoover Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning

Where did the surname Hoover come from? What does the surname Hoover mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Hoover and family migration on YourRoots Map.

The surname Hoover is an Anglicized version of the German and Dutch surname Huber, originally denoting a landowner or prosperous small farmer. This surname has notable associations with individuals such as Herbert Hoover, the 31st president of the United States, and Erna Schneider Hoover, the inventor of the computerized telephone switching system. YourRoots data indicates that the surname Hoover first appeared in records from England in the early 16th century, later spreading to Switzerland by the start of the 17th century. The volume of records for the Hoover surname dramatically increased in the United States from the 18th century onwards, indicating a significant migration or population growth during this period.

By the 18th century, the Hoover surname had a significant presence in the United States, surpassing its occurrences in England and Switzerland. Today, the surname remains prominent in the United States, demonstrating a wide-reaching global presence. While exact distribution data is not provided, the appearance of the Hoover surname in the United States, England, and Switzerland points to its widespread dissemination across various regions. This surname's origin as an indicator of land ownership or prosperity has evolved over time, encompassing a diverse range of notable individuals and reflecting a rich historical legacy.