Surname Gann - Meaning and Origin
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Unearthing Ancestry: The Gann DNA Journey Using iGENEA Test
The iGENEA DNA test unveiled the deep-rooted origins of my surname Gann, tracing my ancestors back to Western Europe. Through the DNA database, I also had the opportunity to connect with other Gann individuals worldwide. The journey was educational and paved the way for unexpected kinships.
Z. Gann
read moreGann: What does the surname Gann mean?
The surname Gann is of English origin and derived from the Old English pre 7th Century word "gann", which means "to yawn" or "gape". It is considered a nickname for a lazy or indolent person. It can also be an occupational name for someone who used a pole or a beam, derived from the Middle English word "gonne, gonne", a type of heavy weapon or medieval cannon. In some cases, Gann may also be a patronymic derived from the personal name Gunna. Over the centuries, this surname has developed into various spelling forms including Gan, Gann, Gahn, Gawn, and Gaun. Like many surnames, the exact meaning can vary based on geographical regions and historical usage. Due to the historical migration and movement of families, the surname Gann can be found dispersed across the world today, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Order DNA origin analysisGann: Where does the name Gann come from?
The surname Gann is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Norman personal name Guant or Gant, which came from the Belgian town of Gaunt, now known as Ghent. The name may have also come from the Old English word "gann," meaning "magic." Some derivations suggest it's a metonymic occupational surname referring to a dealer or maker of gloves, from the Middle High German "gant."
The name Gann first appeared in Sussex, where they held a family seat from early times. Over the centuries, the name's spelling changed numerous times and grew in popularity. The Gann family played a significant role in the social, economic, and political scenes, especially during the era of the Normans.
Today, the surname Gann is most common in the United States, particularly in the southern states like Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Georgia. There's also a reasonable distribution in England, primarily in the southeast, including Kent and Essex. Moreover, the name can be found in lesser frequency in Canada and Australia.
Variations of the surname Gann
The surname Gann is of Celtic origin and has various spellings and variations. The roots of the Gann surname are connected to the ancient Celtic culture of Wales. This name was originally derived from the Welsh personal name Gethin. Similar variations in spelling of this surname include Gannon, Ganon, Gannan, Gan, Ganon, Gane, Ganney, Ganye, Gant, Gaine, and Gain.
The Gann surname has also been associated with Irish and Scottish origins, and as such, displays other variants. For instance, in Ireland, McGann, O'Gann, and O'Gannon are also seen. The Scottish Gaelic form Mac Gille Fhaolain (son of the servant of St Fillan) which has also been anglicised as McGillonie, McGilfillan, MacGillefillan, and other variants are considered associated with the Gann surname.
Other variants can occur within different communities depending on phonetic translations, for example in French may appear as Gan, Ganet, Ganot, Gannat. Always consider that regional dialects and spelling conventions may create even more variations.
Remember this list is not exhaustive and the same name can have different origins, or surnames may be homonyms, looking and sounding similar but unrelated. It's always recommended to research individual lineage.
Famous people with the name Gann
- W.D. Gann: A famous commodities trader, considered one of the most skilled traders of his time. He developed several technical analysis tools still used by traders today.
- Simon Gann: Along with his twin brother, became infamous for a conviction of duping people in a romance scam.
- Sam Gann: Known for his acting career, he is best remembered for his role in the film "The Last Fall."
- Ernest K. Gann: An American aviator, author, sailor, and conservationist. He is known for his novels including "The High and the Mighty" and "Fate is the Hunter."
- Justin Gann: An American musician popular for his jazz compositions.
- Tim Gann: An American politician who served in the Missouri House of Representatives.
- Taylor Gann: An American actor best known for his roles in "The Single Moms Club" and "Madea's Family Reunion".
- Parke Gann: A famous author of travel books, known for vividly describing his travels across different continents.
- Mathias Gann: A well-known German athlete who participated in several discus throw competitions at the international level.
- Jordan Gann: A prominent Canadian actress known for her role in the film "Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark." Please note that some of these individuals are not universally recognized, but they are notable within their specific fields or regions.