A "Hine" is an occupational name of English origin, specifically from Devon, historically denoting a servant, a member of a household, or a farm laborer.
Origins and Meaning
The name "Hine" derives from the Middle English and Old English word hīne. This term was used to describe individuals engaged in various forms of service or labor.
- Historical Meanings of hīne:
- Servant: An individual employed to perform duties for others, particularly in a domestic setting.
- Member of a Household: Someone belonging to a domestic group, often including those who served the family.
- Farm Laborer: An individual who worked on a farm, performing tasks such as:
- Herdsman: One who tends to livestock, like cattle.
- Shepherd: One who tends to sheep.
Historical Context
Originally, the term hīne was a collective noun, referring to a group or body of servants, stemming from an Old English plural noun. Over time, it evolved to become an occupational surname, indicating that an ancestor of the person bearing the name was likely involved in these service or labor roles.
Name Frequency
As an English surname, "Hine" has a notable presence. For example, in 2010, the surname "Hine" appeared with a frequency of 3738 in the United States, indicating its continued existence as a surname passed down through generations.
Summary of "Hine"
The table below provides a quick overview of the key characteristics of the name "Hine":
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | English (specifically Devon) |
| Type of Name | Occupational Surname |
| Etymology | Derived from Middle English and Old English hīne |
| Core Meaning | Servant, member of a household, farm laborer |
| Examples | Herdsman, Shepherd |
| Historical Use | Originally a collective term for a body of servants |
