Pennington Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Pennington come from? What does the surname Pennington mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Pennington and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Pennington Origin: What does the last name Pennington mean?
The surname Pennington has its origins in England, specifically in the town of Pennington, Cumbria. It is believed to have evolved from the Old English term "Pennigetun," meaning "little hill town." This surname is closely associated with the Pennington family, who were prominent figures before and during the Norman Conquest of 1066. The Pennington name first appeared in the Domesday Book, a historical record from the late 11th century, linking it to the Manor of Hougun in North Cumbria. The family's lineage can be traced back to Gamel de Penitone, indicating their significance in Cumberland even before the Norman Conquest.
According to data from YourRoots, the Pennington surname has been present in England since the early 12th century. Over time, the family's geographical presence expanded, with notable records emerging in the United States from the 17th century onwards. Today, the Pennington name remains well-represented in the United States, highlighting the family's enduring legacy and global diaspora. The surname's rich history reflects a heritage of aristocracy and ancestral connections, making it a notable and widespread name across various regions and cultures.
Pennington Last Name History: Where did the last name Pennington come from?
Origin of Pennington Surname: Where does the last name Pennington originate from?
The YourRoots database shows that the surname Pennington first emerged in records from England (United Kingdom) in the early 12th century. This, however, only represents information on the exact "Pennington" spelling in the YourRoots database and does not encompass data from other record sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Pennington: What does the Pennington surname history look like in the early days?
The Pennington surname remained heavily linked with the United Kingdom from the 12th to the 16th century, according to the YourRoots data. From the 17th century onwards, the volume of Pennington records began to rise notably in the United States, suggesting a shift in the family's geographical presence over time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Pennington surname today?
In the 18th and 19th century, the volume of Pennington records in the United States surpassed those in the United Kingdom, a trend that persisted into the 20th century. The Pennington surname remains well-represented in the United States in the 21st century, indicating that the family has a significant presence in this region. While this data overview primarily focuses on the United Kingdom and the United States, the Pennington surname has likely spread to other countries over time, reflecting the broader global diaspora.
Explore Pennington last name heritage and Pennington surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Pennington Surame?
Ty Pennington
Tygert Burton "Ty" Pennington (October 19, 1964 - ) is an American television host, artist, carpenter, and author known for his roles in popular home improvement shows like Trading Spaces and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. With his charismatic personality and design skills, Pennington has won two Primetime Emmy Awards and has become a household name in the world of home renovation. He continues to inspire viewers with his talent and passion for transforming spaces on various TV shows and projects.
Raquel Pennington
Raquel Len Pennington (September 5, 1988) is an American professional mixed martial artist who competes in the women's Bantamweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). She is a former UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion and ranked #1 in the UFC women's bantamweight rankings. Pennington's journey in MMA includes victories, losses, and notable fights against top opponents like Amanda Nunes and Miesha Tate. She is known for her tenacity, skill, and contributions to the sport as a trailblazing athlete in the UFC.
Janice Pennington
Janice Maurine Pennington (born July 8, 1942) is an American former model known for her long-running role as one of the original "Barker's Beauties" on the iconic game show The Price Is Right. She also graced the pages of Playboy as Playmate of the Month in May 1971. Pennington's career spanned nearly three decades on the show, making her a beloved figure in television history. With a resilient spirit, she overcame personal challenges, including the mysterious disappearance of her second husband, to continue shining in the spotlight.
Chad Pennington
James Chadwick Pennington (Jun 26, 1976 - ) is an American former professional football quarterback known for his time with the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins in the NFL. He led both teams to division titles and set a league record for completion percentage. After retiring, Pennington became the head football coach at Sayre School in Kentucky. He excelled in college at Marshall University, setting records and winning championships. Pennington's success on and off the field, including academic achievements, made him a respected figure in the football world.
Mary Engle Pennington
Mary Engle Pennington (October 8, 1872 – December 27, 1952) was an American bacteriological chemist, food scientist, and refrigeration engineer. She revolutionized the preservation and transportation of perishable foods, becoming the first female lab chief at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Pennington received prestigious awards, including 5 patents and the Notable Service Medal from President Herbert Hoover. Inducted into multiple Halls of Fame, her work in improving food safety standards and refrigeration methods left a lasting impact on the industry.
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