Turner Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Turner come from? What does the surname Turner mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Turner and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Toner, Tarner, Trinder, Turney
Surname Turner Origin: What does the last name Turner mean?
Turner is a surname with origins in Normandy, France, introduced to England after the Norman conquest in the 12th century. It is often associated with an occupational name for someone who worked with wood, metal, or bone by turning on a lathe. Similar to German, Polish, Finnish, and Russian surnames, Turner signifies craftsmanship and skill in creating small objects. Additionally, it may also derive from Old French terms related to tournament participation or swift running, adding layers to its historical significance.
YourRoots data traces the presence of the Turner surname in England since the early 14th century, with records expanding globally by the 17th century, notably in the United States. Over time, the surname has spread to various countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring popularity and widespread use. Today, Turner can be found in numerous nations, underscoring its broad reach and continued relevance across different cultures and regions.
Turner Last Name History: Where did the last name Turner come from?
Origin of Turner Surname: Where does the last name Turner originate from?
Our YourRoots database indicates that the surname Turner first cropped up in records from England, United Kingdom, in the early 14th century. It's important to note that this pertains solely to YourRoots data for the precise spelling "Turner" and doesn't incorporate other record sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Turner: What does the Turner surname history look like in the early days?
The "Turner" surname remained closely linked to the United Kingdom, specifically England, from the 14th century through to the 15th century. However, the early 17th century saw the emergence of the Turner family records in the United States, indicating a shift in the frequency of records. As per the YourRoots data, the Turner surname started appearing in other countries as well, illustrating its global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Turner surname today?
Starting from the 17th century, the volume of records with the Turner surname began to grow significantly in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom by the early 18th century. This trend continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the "Turner" surname can be found in a wide variety of countries, emphasizing its global reach. Besides the United Kingdom and the United States, the Turner surname can be identified in a multitude of countries, reflecting the global spread of the surname.
Explore Turner last name heritage and Turner surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Turner Surame?
Tina Turner
Tina Turner (Anna Mae Bullock; Nov 26, 1939 - May 24, 2023) was a legendary singer, songwriter, and actress known as the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll." She achieved immense success as a solo artist after her iconic duo with Ike Turner. Turner's powerful vocals and dynamic performances made her a cultural icon worldwide.
Kathleen Turner
Mary Kathleen Turner (born Jun 19, 1954) is an American actress known for her distinctive husky voice. She rose to fame with roles in films like "Body Heat" and "Romancing the Stone." Turner has won Golden Globes and received Oscar nominations. She also did voice work for popular shows like "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy."
Alex Turner
Alexander David Turner (Jan 6, 1986 - present) is a British musician known for leading the band Arctic Monkeys. He is praised for his eclectic lyricism and has topped the UK Albums Chart multiple times. Turner has also co-founded The Last Shadow Puppets and worked on various musical projects.
Lana Turner
Julia Jean "Lana" Turner (Feb 8, 1921 - Jun 29, 1995) was an iconic American actress known for her glamorous persona and successful film career spanning nearly five decades. She starred in numerous popular films like "The Postman Always Rings Twice" and "Peyton Place," and was a major star during the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Janine Turner
Janine Loraine Gauntt (Dec 6, 1962) is a well-known American actress, author, and public speaker. She is famous for her roles in TV series like Northern Exposure and movies like Cliffhanger. Turner is also the co-founder of Constituting America, an organization focused on educating people about the U.S. Constitution.
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