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H is the eighth most commonly used letter in the alphabet (1). As per numerology, those having last names that start with H are known to possess power, ambition, authority, and achievement. They are also believed to exhibit traits of leadership and determination. Our list of H last names encompass from every part of the world, from Ireland to Japan. We have names that are unique and rare such as Hermidilla, Hoa, and Hippy, to common surnames such as Ha and Heydari. Explore this list of last names that brims with new possibilities for you and your family.
Key Pointers
- Hermosa, Halle, Heinrich, Heydari, and Herbert are a few last names that begin with H that are also used as given names.
- Asian last names beginning with H are a mix of Khmer, Armenian, Arabic, Azerbaijani, and Filipino surnames.
- Some Chinese last names beginning with H are derived from place names or provinces.
250+ Last Names That Start With H
Our extensive list covers last names beginning with the letter H, from the deepest parts of the world to names made famous by influential individuals.
Japanese Last Names That Start With H
You may confuse one Japanese surname for another since they have similar spellings and pronunciations. Nonetheless, these last names carry their own distinct beauty. These names reflect Japanese culture and highlight the beauty of its language, nature, and geography.
1. Hachimitsu
Hachimitsu is a sweet and lovely Japanese surname that means ‘honey.’
2. Hachimura
A surname that is made up of two Chinese characters, and when combined results in the meaning of ‘bee village.’
3. Hachiya
Closely resembling Hachimura, Hachiya comes from the Japanese word ‘hachi,’ meaning ‘bee’ or ‘wasp,’ combined with ‘ya,’ meaning ‘valley.’
4. Hachiyama
A distinct Japanese surname that means ‘eight mountains.’ It can be spelled as Hassan, Yayama, and Yatsuyama.
5. Hagihara
Taken from two Japanese elements, Hagihara means ‘bush clover’ and ‘field’ or ‘plain.’
6. Hamaguchi
A Japanese surname that is derived from a location. Hamaguchi means ‘the mouth or entrance of the beach or seashore.’
7. Hamasaki
‘Hama’ means beach in Japanese and combined with ‘suki,’ it means ‘cape’ or ‘peninsula.’ The complete meaning of Hamasaki means ‘beach cape’ or ‘beach peninsula.’
8. Haraguchi
Another Japanese surname inspired by the topography of the land. Haraguchi means ‘entrance of a field or plain.’
9. Hasegawa
Inspired by the place name Hase and combined with ‘kawa,’ Hasegawa means ‘a river or stream in Hase.’
10. Hashiguchi
In Japanese, ‘kuchi’ means ‘entrance’ or ‘mouth,’ and the surname Hashiguchi carries the connotation of ‘bridge to the entrance.’
11. Hashimoto
Hashitmoto is a prominent Japanese surname that means the ‘root bridge,’ ‘origin bridge,’ or ‘base bridge.’
12. Hayasaka
Taken from two Japanese elements, Hayasaka comes from ‘haya,’ meaning ‘already’ or ‘now,’ and ‘saka,’ meaning ‘slope.’
13. Hayashi
From the beautiful greenery and tall pines, Hayashi means ‘forest’ in Japanese.
14. Hidaka
A bright and cheerful surname that carries the connotations of ‘sun’ and ‘day,’ combined with ‘tall’ and ‘high.’
15. Higashi
Everyone needs a direction in life and this Japanese surname points you to the ‘east,’ since that is its connotation.
16. Himura
Almost an eerie picture, the surname paints a picture of a red civilization since it carries the connotations of ‘scarlet’ or ‘dark red,’ combined with the word ‘town’ or ‘village.’
17. Hino
A name with a variety of meanings, Hino can mean ‘day in the wilderness,’ ‘sun in the field,’ or ‘fire in the field or wilderness.’
18. Hiramatsu
A soothing surname inspired by the beauty of nature. Hiramatsu means ‘peacefulness of the pine trees.’
19. Hirano
Another relaxing surname that is derived from nature. Hirano means ‘peace in the wilderness.’
20. Hirata
Japan is known as an agricultural place which is why Hirata is inspired by the paddy fields. It means ‘peace in the rice paddy fields.’
21. Hisakawa
An ancient Japanese last name, Hisakawa means ‘river or stream from a long time ago.’
22. Honda
Everyone is familiar with Honda, the multinational conglomerate manufacturer of automobiles. Honda is actually a Japanese surname that means ‘the root or the origin of the rice paddy field.’
23. Hoshino
A contrasting surname, Hoshino comes from two Japanese elements that mean ‘star field.’
Check out more Japanese last names.
Hispanic Last Names That Start With H
The beauty of Hispanic surnames lies in the fact that they are a mix of everything. The majority of the surnames carry Spanish roots.
24. Haro
What is interesting about this last name is that it is spelled and pronounced differently. Haro is the shortened version of de Haro and it is enunciated as ‘adoh.’
25. Henriquez
The exact meaning of the surname is not clear, however, Henriquez is a popular surname in Spanish, Latin American, Central African, and Caribbean. Curaçaoan writer and sculptress, May Henriquez, was one notable woman with the last name.
26. Heraldez
Heraldez can be considered as a last name with infamous origins. It is the spelling variant of Hernando.
27. Herra
A Spanish surname that is commonly seen in Latin American families. The exact meaning of the surname remains ambiguous.
28. Hipólito
Hipólito is a surname derived from the eponymous given name. It is a Spanish and Portuguese surname that means ‘freer of horses.’
29. Hurtado
A mischievous Spanish surname that comes from the word ‘hurtar.’ It means ‘to steal.’ It is commonly used as an occupational last name.
30. Hidalgo
Hidalgo is seen as both an occupational surname as well as a last name that was derived from a nickname. It means ‘nobleman’ in Spanish.
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31. Heredia
Heredia is a locative surname inspired by many places around Basque Country with the same name. The meaning of the name may have been attained from the word ‘heredium,’ which means ‘hereditary estate.’
32. Holguín
A surname that was initially used as a nickname for someone who is always relaxed. The exact meaning of the name is ‘to rest’ or ‘to enjoy oneself.’
33. Hernandes
Hernandes is a spelling variant of Hernández and it means ‘son of Hernando’ in Spanish.
34. Hermosillo
A diminutive of the word ‘hermoso,’ Hermosillo was used as a nickname for someone who is trendy and fashionable. It means ‘finely formed’ or ‘handsome.’
35. Higuera
The original family who bore the family name once lived in Figueroa, which is why it is considered to be a local last name. It is taken from an estate or a village where the original bearers of the name lived or possessed land.
36. Huertas
A lovely and bright surname that is inspired by the surroundings of the land. Huertas means ‘garden’ or ‘orchard.’
37. Horta
Used as a topographic surname for someone who lives next to a garden or used as an occupational surname for one who tends gardens.
38. Hilario
Hilario comes from the personal name Hilarius which means ‘cheerful.’
39. Huamán
Huamán is the Hispanicized form of the Quechua word ‘waman,’ which means ‘falcon’ or ‘hawk.’
Spanish Last Names That Start With H
In Spanish culture, it is not uncommon to see many last names inherited from the father’s side of the family. Last names also take inspiration from different spanish words like Hermosa and Hermosisima.
40. Henares
A Spanish last name with Celtic origins meaning ‘brave.’ It is also a locative and topographic surname since it is a name shared by different towns and a river.
41. Hermenegildo
Taken from the given name with the same spelling, Hermenegildo means ‘great tribute’ or ‘immense compensation.’ It is commonly used as a Spanish and Portuguese last name.
42. Hermosa
A lovely Spanish surname that echoes one’s beauty. It literally means ‘beautiful.’
43. Hermosisima
You may have heard of Hermosa but have you heard of Hermosisima, the superlative surname? It means ‘most beautiful’ in Spanish.
44. Hermoso
Very common in the Philippines, Hermoso came into use as a nickname for someone handsome. Its use later on transferred into a last name.
45. Hernández
Hernández is not only used as a given name but is also popularly used as a surname. It means ‘son of Hernando.’
46. Hernandez
Hernandez is the unaccent variant of Hernández and they share the same meaning, that is ‘son of Hernando.’
Quick Fact47. Hernando
Inspired by the eponymous given name, Hernando is the Spanish form of Ferdinand. It carries the connotation of ‘bold peace’ or ‘daring peace.’
48. Herrera
A locative surname that is also a spelling variant of Ferreira. It comes from a town that derived its name from the Latin word ‘ferrum,’ which translates to ‘iron.’
49. Herrero
Not to be mistaken with Herrera, Herrero carries very similar meanings but it is the Spanish cognate of Ferrari, an occupational surname for an ironworker or a blacksmith.
50. Hierro
An occupational surname and a spelling variant of Ferro. It comes from the Latin word ‘ferrum,’ meaning iron. As you can guess, it is a surname given to an ironworker.
51. Higuaín
One of the rare Spanish surnames with unclear origins. It is assumed that Higuaín comes from the Basque last name Iguain.
52. Hipolito
Hipolito is the unaccented spelling of Hipólito. It is a Spanish surname commonly used in the Philippines. It carries the connotation of ‘freer of horses.’
53. Hirundo
A rare Spanish surname that is seen mostly in the Philippines. Hirundo has Latin roots and it means ‘swallow.’
54. Holanda
Holanda is the Spanish and Portuguese spelling of Holland, an English surname that means ‘point of land’ or ‘heel land.’
55. Honesto
Taken from the eponymous given name, the meaning of Honeto is exactly like it sounds. Honesto carries Latin roots and it means ‘honest,’ ‘gentleman,’ ‘respectable,’ and ‘honorable.’
56. Hoya
Hoya is a locative surname inspired by many place names from different provinces in Spain. It also has roots in Spanish and it means ‘pit’ or ‘hole.’
57. Huerta
Huerta is a Spanish last name with Latin roots. It comes from the word ‘hortus,’ meaning ‘garden’ or ‘orchard.’
Check out more Spanish surnames
Mexican Last Names That Start With H
Mexican last names may have a close resemblance with Spanish surnames, but they are also a mix of Latin, Galician, and ancient Aztec origins.
58. Hadjópulos
Hadjópulos is a rare Mexican surname that is also found in the lands of the Greeks. It is the Spanish form of the Greek name Chatzopoulos.
59. Hay
A surname that is popular in various languages but each with varied meanings. In Spanish, Hay comes from the word ‘haya,’ which means ‘beech tree.’ It is used as a topographic name.
60. Hermida
A surname with roots in Galician, it comes from the Spanish word ‘hermano,’ which means ‘brother.’
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61. Hevia
Taken from the eponymous parish in the municipality of Siero in Spain, Hevia is considered to be a locative surname.
62. Honorato
Inspired by the given name with the same spelling, Honorato has its roots in Late Latin and it means ‘esteemed’ or ‘distinguished.’
63. Huehuetenango
From Central Mexico, Huehuetenango is a Nahuatl surname that means ‘place of the ancients.’
64. Huidobro
From the Castilian municipality of Los Altos comes the Spanish surname Huidobro.
65. Huitzil
Huitzil is an Aztec and Nahuatl surname that comes from the Nahuatl word ‘uitsitsillin,’ meaning ‘hummingbird.’
Check out more popular Mexican surnames.
German Last Names That Start With H
German last names have a strong sound when pronounced. It is common to see surnames inspired by nature, animals, topography, and occupation.
66. Haas
A spelling variant of Hase, Haas was first used as a nickname for someone who is quick or timid. The meaning of the surname is ‘hare’ or ‘rabbit.’
67. Haase
A slightly different spelling of Hase. It comes from the Middle High German and Middle Low German word ‘hase,’ which means ‘hare’ or ‘rabbit.’
68. Haber
Derived from the Old High German word ‘habaro,’ which stands for ‘oat.’ Haber is used as an occupational surname for someone who grew or sold oats.
69. Haberkorn
Another Germanic occupational surname that is made up of two Old High German elements, ‘habaro,’ means ‘oats,’ and ‘korn,’ stands for ‘kernel’ or ‘grain.’ Haberkorn is given to someone who trades oats.
70. Habich
Habich is the German cognate of the English surname Hawk. It was used as a nickname for someone who resembled a hawk.
71. Habicht
Another respelling for Habich, the German cognate of Hawk. It carries the connotation of ‘hawk,’ and is used as a nickname for an individual with hawk-like features.
72. Hafner
Taken from the Old High German ‘hafan,’ which means ‘pot’ or ‘potter.’ Hafner is an occupational surname for a person who makes pots.
73. Hahn
A proud and antagonistic individual may be called a hahn. This nickname, later turned to surname, comes from the Old High German word ‘hano,’ meaning ‘rooster’ or ‘cock.’
74. Hall
Just like the name sounds, Hall means ‘hall.’ It may be used for someone who lives or works in a hall.
75. Halle
Halle is the German form of Hall, a surname that means ‘hall.’
76. Hartman
Hartman is the Dutch and Americanized spelling of Hartmann, a German given name. It carries the connotation of ‘brave man.’
77. Hartmann
The German surname comes from the eponymous given name that means ‘brave man.’
78. Hase
Another German spelling of Haas and Haase. Hase comes from the Middle High German and Middle Low German word ‘hase,’ meaning ‘hare’ or ‘rabbit.’
79. Hasenkamp
A locational surname derived from a place in northern Germany. It means ‘rabbit field.’
80. Hass
Inspired by the personal name Hasso, Hass is a Germanic surname that may possibly allude to the Germanic tribe of the Hessians.
81. Hauer
A distinct surname taken from the Middle High German word ‘houwen,’ it means ‘to chop.’ Hauer is used as an occupational surname for someone who works as a woodchopper or a butcher.
82. Haumann
Haumann carries the same connotation as Hauer and it means ‘to chop.’ In the earlier days, it was used as an occupational surname for someone who worked as a butcher or a woodchopper.
83. Haupt
The German cognate of the English surname Head. It literally means ‘head,’ and may have been used as a nickname for someone who has an oddly shaped head, for someone who lives next to a river or valley, or even for a person who is assigned as the village headman.
84. Häusler
Taken from the Old High German word ‘hus,’ meaning house. The irony of the name is that it was given to someone who lived in a house with no land.
85. Havener
The German variant of Hafner, an occupational surname for someone who makes pots or a potter.
86. Heidrich
Taking inspiration from the German given name Heidrich. This surname carries the connotations of ‘heath ruler’ or ‘heather king.’
87. Heinrich
The name comes from the given name Heinrich, which is a German form of Henry. It carries the connotations of ‘home ruler.’ Like its meaning, the name has a long line of German rulers bearing the name.
88. Heinrichs
A spelling variant of Heinrich, Heinrichs carries the same connotation as its variant, that is ‘home ruler.’
89. Heintze
With roots in the royal German name Heinrich, Heintze is recognized as a diminutive form and it means ‘home ruler.’
90. Heinz
When you hear the last name Heinz, you think of tomato ketchup right? Heinz is actually a German surname and is a diminutive of the surname Heinrich. It means ‘home ruler.’
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91. Hennig
Heinrich is a German name and surname with multiple diminutives. It carries the connotation of ‘home ruler.’
92. Heppenheimer
A locative Germanic surname that comes from the city of Heppenheim in Hesse, Germany.
93. Herbert
Many German names come from given names and Herbert is no different. It originated from the male given name that means ‘bright army.’
94. Hermann
Taken from the given name with the same spelling, Hermann means ‘army man.’
95. Herrmann
With two r’s, Herrmann is a spelling variant of Hermann or Herman, a Germanic personal name. It carries the connotation of ‘army man.’
96. Hersch
Hersch is a name with different possible origins. It was used as a nickname, an occupational surname, and may have been derived from a given name. Hersch is a spelling variant of Hirsch, which could mean ‘deer’ or ‘fawn’ in German and Yiddish.
97. Herschel
A diminutive of Hirsch, a German and Yiddish surname that carries the gentle connotation of ‘deer.’
98. Hertz
You may be familiar with the car rental company with the same name. In fact, Hertz is a German surname that comes from the Middle High German word ‘herze,’ which means ‘heart.’ It may have been first used as a nickname for someone with a big-hearted nature.
99. Herzog
An elite German surname that means ‘duke.’ It may have been used as a surname for a duke himself, or for an individual who works at a duke’s estate.
100. Hiedler
A unique German surname that comes from the southern German word ‘hiedl,’ it means ‘underground stream.’
101. Hintzen
Hintzen is a diminutive of Heinrich and a patronymic surname. It means ‘son of Hintz.’
102. Hoch
Initially used as a nickname, Hoch means ‘tall’ in German.’
103. Hochberg
Hochberg is a locative German surname. It comes from place names that mean ‘high hill.’
104. Hofer
Taken from the German word ‘Hof,’ which stands for ‘farm.’ Hofer is used as an occupational surname for a farmer.
105. Hoffmann
From the Middle High German word ‘hofmann,’ which translates to ‘farmer.’ Hoffmann was initially used as an occupational surname.
Check out more German last names.
Italian Last Names Starting With H
What is interesting about Italian last names starting with the letter H is that they are extremely rare. Here are two of the Italian surnames beginning with H.
106. Hermidilla
Hermidilla is used as an occupational surname. It is found in Italy as well as the Philippines, but it is rarely used. It originated from the Batangas province in the Southern Tagalog region in the Philippines.
107. House of Sclafani
An Italian surname that has its roots in Greek, specifically the phrase ‘Aesculapii fanum,’ which translates to ‘Sacred to the god Aesculapius.’
Check out more Italian last names.
Korean Last Names That Start With H
Many Korean last names are inspired by the beauty of nature, or sometimes it is a combination of distinct words such as ‘crane’ and ‘learn,’ or ‘expand’ and ‘great.’
108. Ha
Ha is a common surname in Asian communities. However, as a Korean las name, it carries the connotation of ‘river’ or ‘stream.’
109. Hak
A Sino-Korean last name with two possible meanings. It could either mean ‘crane’ or ‘learn.’
110. Han
A name that resonates with the beauty of the ancient state of Han. In the contemporary world, the state of Han is known as the Shanxi and Henan provinces.
111. Hara
The exact meaning of Hara as a Korean surname is not clear. However, it is also a Japanese surname that means ‘field’ or ‘plain.’
112. Heo
A simple three-letter last name. Heo can either mean ‘to permit’ or ‘advocate’ in Korean. It can also mean ‘to approve’ in Sino-Korean.
113. Ho
Ho is popular as a Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese surname. In Korean, Ho is an alternate transcription of Heo, which means ‘to permit’ or ‘to approve.’
114. Hong
The roots of Hong come from China and it carries the connotation of ‘expand’ or ‘great.’
115. Huh
Huh is the variant transcription of the Korean Hangul, Heo. It means ‘to permit’ or ‘to advocate.’
116. Hwa
Hwa is the Korean form of Hua, a Chinese surname that could either mean ‘to become’ or ‘to be,’ or ‘splendid,’ ‘illustrious,’ and ‘flowery.’
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117. Hwang
Hwang is a name that is commonly seen in Taiwan and is the Korean transcription of Huang.
118. Hwangbo
Taken from the Sino-Korean word ‘hwangbo,’ the exact meaning of the surname remains ambiguous. However, it is the Korean variant of Huangfu.
119. Hyeong-sun
The exact meaning of this Korean surname remains unclear. However, it is commonly borne by females.
120. Hyun
From the Sino-Korean word ‘hyeon,’ Hyun carries the connotations of ‘deep,’ ‘profound,’ or ‘mysterious.’
Check out more Korean family names.
English Last Names That Start With H
English last names have been around for a long time. Many of the surnames are inspired by the topography or the location.
121. Hackett
Hackett is a diminutive of the medieval surname Hake. It has Old Norse roots and it means ‘hook.’
122. Hadaway
Sounds eerily similar to Hathaway? That’s because it is a spelling variant of Hathaway. The name is used as a locative surname for someone who lives near a path across a heath.
123. Haden
English names are often locative surnames and Haden means ‘heath hill.’
124. Haggard
An English surname with a mix of Old French and German, Haggard was used as a nickname for someone who is ‘wild’ or ‘untamed.’
125. Haig
Either from the Old English ‘haga’ or Old Norse ‘hagi,’ Haig means ‘enclosure’ or ‘pasture.’
126. Haight
Haight was used as a topographic surname for someone who lived at the top of a hill. The meaning of the name comes from the Old English word ‘heahþu,’ which means ‘height’ or ‘summit.’
127. Hailey
A spelling variant of Haley, Hailey comes from the name of an English town which means ‘hay clearing.’
128. Haines
Haines is a spelling alternative to Haynes. It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Hagano.
129. Hale
Hale has its roots in Old English, taken from the word ‘halh,’ it means ‘nook,’ ‘recess,’ or ‘hollow.’
130. Haley
A locative surname that is derived from the name of an English town that means ‘hay clearing.’
131. Hall
The surname means exactly how it sounds, ‘hall.’ It may be given to someone who works in a hall or lives in it.
132. Hambleton
A locative surname derived from two Old English elements, ‘hamel,’ meaning ‘crooked’ and ‘tun,’ signifying ‘enclosure,’ ‘yard,’ or ‘town.’
133. Hamilton
Formula 1 racing superstar Lewis Hamilton bears the surname. It is an Old English last name that means ‘crooked hill.’
134. Hamm
Hamm is used as a locative surname to denote someone who lived next to a river meadow.
135. Hammond
There are two possibilities for the origin of Hammond. It could either be connected to the Norse name Hamo or Haimo, which means ‘home,’ or it may be taken from the Old Norse personal name Hámundr, meaning ‘battle protection.’
136. Hampson
Hampson is a patronymic surname that comes from the given name Hamo. It means ‘son of Hamo.’
137. Hampton
With roots in Old English, Hampton could either carry the connotation of ‘home town’ or ‘water meadow enclosure.’ It originates from the town names in England.
138. Hancock
You may have heard of this surname through the award-winning eponymous movie where Will Smith starred. Hancock is an Old English surname that is a diminutive of Hann, a given name that means ‘Yahweh is gracious.’
139. Hanley
Hanley is inspired by the many place names scattered in England. It means ‘high meadow’ in Old English.
140. Hanson
Just like how it sounds, Hanson is a patronymic surname that means ‘son of Hann.’
141. Harden
Like many English last names, Harden is based on a location. It means ‘hare valley’ in Old English.
142. Harding
Taken from the given name Heard, Harding carries the connotations of ‘hard,’ ‘firm,’ ‘brave,’ or ‘hardy.’
143. Hardwick
Hardwick is a locational surname that is made up of two Old English words, ‘heord’ and ‘wic,’ which translates to ‘herd village’ or ‘herd town.’
144. Hardy
A name borne by prominent English novelist and poet, Thomas Hardy. It comes from the Old French and Middle English ‘hardi,’ which translates to ‘bold’ or ‘daring.’
145. Hargrave
The meaning of the name is closely related to how it sounds. From the Old English word ‘har’ and ‘graf,’ the surname means ‘gray grave.’
146. Harley
The meaning of Harley is derived from a place name that means ‘hare clearing.’
147. Harper
You may guess the meaning of this occupational surname. It is given to one who makes harps.
148. Harrington
There are two possible meanings that can be associated with Harrington, it could either mean ‘stony town’ or ‘Hæfer’s town.’
149. Hart
Initially used as a nickname and a locative surname, Hart means ‘male deer.’ It could be given to someone who resembles a male deer or someone who lives next to a region where male deer are often found.
150. Hartell
Taking root from the surname Hart which means ‘male deer,’ Hartell means ‘male deer hill.’ It may have emerged from a place where male deers often frequent.
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151. Harvey
Taken from the Breton name Haerviu or Harvey, it means ‘battle worthy.’
152. Hathaway
Borne by the talented American actress Anne Hathaway, the surname was initially a habitational name for someone who lived near a path across a heath.
153. Hawking
One of the most famous bearers of the name is British physicist Stephen Hawking. Hawking is a diminutive of Hawk, an English surname that means ‘hawk,’ like the bird.
154. Hayward
The surname Hayward is derived from the Old English words ‘hæg,’ meaning ‘enclosure’ or ‘fence,’ and ‘weard,’ meaning ‘guard.’ Hayward is used as an occupational surname for someone who protects an enclosed forest.
TriviaCheck out more British surnames.
American Last Names That Start With H
Many American surnames have their roots in different languages derived from various cultures all over the world. This is because of the colonization that happened during the earlier days.
155. Haroldson
Haroldson is the American spelling of the Swedish surname, Haraldsson. It is a patronymic surname that means ‘son of Harold.’
156. Harrelson
You may be familiar with American actor Woody Harrelson. The surname is of English roots and it means ‘son of Harold.’
157. Hartman
Hartman is the Americanized and Dutch spelling of the German Hartmann. It carries manly connotations such as ‘firm,’ ‘brave,’ and ‘hardy.’
158. Hawthorne
The name originated as a locative surname for someone who lives next to a hawthorn bush. The meaning of the name lies in Old English roots and was borne by Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of The Scarlet Letter.
159. Hayes
Found as an Irish, English, and Jewish surname, Hayes has multiple meanings. As an Irish name, it is considered to be an anglicized form of Irish Ó hAodha, meaning ‘descendant of Aodh.’ In English, the name is derived from locations around England, meaning ‘enclosed’ or ‘fence.’ Lastly, in Jewish, Hayes is a matronymic name taken from the given name Chaya.
160. Hendrix
The surname was made famous by American rockstar, Jimi Hendrix. The root of the surname is taken from the given name with the same spelling that means ‘home ruler.’
161. Hoover
The American spelling of the German name Huber. It means ‘plot of land’ or ‘farm.’ It was used as an occupational surname during earlier days.
162. Hopper
The surname emerged as a nickname for someone who was fidgety and restless. It was borne by American actor Dennis Hopper.
163. Houk
It may be the Americanized spelling of the Dutch surname Hoek. It has a distinct meaning of ‘corner.’
Check out more American surnames
French Last Names That Start With H
These French surnames have been inspired by different French words, personal names, occupations, and locations. They may also have a mix of Germanic roots in them.
164. Hamel
As a French surname, Hamel is used as an occupational surname for someone who lives and works on a farm on the outskirts of the town or village but still depends on it for sustenance.
165. Hamelin
A popular French surname in Quebec, Hamelin is a diminutive of Hamel. It was used as an occupational last name for a person who works in the outskirts of the village on a farm.
166. Hamon
Taking its origins from the given name Hamon, this French surname means ‘home.’
167. Harcourt
Harcourt is used as an English and French surname. In French, Harcourt is the name of a town that originated in the ancient chateau of Harcourt near Brionne in Normandy.
168. Hardewyn
Hardewyn is a French surname that was commonly seen amongst the Huguenots, a religious group who believed in the Reformed tradition of Protestantism.
169. Harduin
Harduin comes from the given name with the same spelling. It also contains variants such as Arduin, Hardouin, and Ardouin. It means ‘brave friend.’
170. Hardy
A mix of Old French and Middle English, Hardy has Germanic roots and it means ‘bold,’ ‘daring,’ or ‘hardy.’
171. Hargier
A surname that goes back all the way to the 15th century. Hargier means ‘keeper of the sheep.’
172. Harmel
Taken from the given name Armel, Harmel means ‘bear prince’ or ‘chieftain of the bears.’
173. Hasard
A spelling variant of Hazard, it was initially used as a nickname for a gambler or a man who often runs risks. It comes from the Old French ‘hasard,’ which means ‘game of chance.’
174. Hässli
A rare French surname that is often used as a Swiss-German diminutive of Haas. It carries the connotation of ‘hare’ or ‘rabbit.’
175. Hébert
Hébert is the French spelling of the German name, Herbert. It means ‘bright army.’
176. Herbert
Herbert comes from the eponymous given name and it carries the connotation of ‘bright army.’
177. Hubert
The French, German, and English surname is taken from the given name Hubert. It carries the wonderful connotation of ‘bright heart.’
Check out more traditional French surnames
Irish Last Names That Start With H
What is noticeable about Irish last names is that they are strongly rooted in family. The majority of the names are inherited from their ancestors.
178. Halloran
A family name that is the anglicized form of Ó hAllmhuráin, meaning ‘descendant of Allmhurán.’ Allmhurán means ‘stranger from across the sea.’
179. Hanegan
A spelling variant of the Irish Ó hAnnagáin, which means ‘descendant of Annagán.’ The root meaning of the name is ‘delay.’
180. Hanigan
Closely similar to Hanegan, Hanigan is also the anglicized version of Ó hAnnagáin and it means ‘descendant of Annagán.’
181. Hannigan
Another spelling variant of Ó hAnnagáin. It is a family name that means ‘descendant of Annagán.’
182. Hannigen
From the Irish family name O’Hannagain, Hannigen carries the connotation of ‘descendant of Annagán.’
183. Hayden
Hayden is an Irish surname that is anglicized from Ó hÉideáin or Ó hÉidín. It could either mean ‘descendant of Éideán’ or ‘descendant of Éidín.’
184. Hayes
Many Irish surnames are often anglicized versions of the original Irish names. Hayes comes from the Irish Ó hAodha, meaning ‘descendant of Aodh.’
185. Hearn
Taken from the long Irish name Ó hEachthighearna, Hearn is the anglicized form and it means ‘descendant of Echthigern.’
186. Heffernan
From the byname Ifearnán, Heffernan is the anglicized version of Ó hIfearnáin, which translates to ‘descendant of Ifearnán.’ Ifearnán also means ‘little demon.’
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187. Hennessy
Hennessy is the anglicized spelling of Ó hAonghuis, which means ‘descendant of Aonghus.’
188. Hickey
Hickey is a soft and gentle surname that is anglicized from Ó hÍcidhe, which means ‘descendant of the healer.’
189. Higgins
A mighty surname that means ‘Viking.’ Higgins is the anglicized form of Ó hUiginn, which means ‘descendant of Uiginn.’
190. Hines
Taken from Ó hEidhin, the anglicized form of the name that means ‘descendant of Eidhin.’
191. Hogan
Hogan comes from Ó hÓgáin, which translates to ‘descendant of Ógán.’ Ógán means ‘young.’
192. Hughes
You would never be able to guess the Irish form of Hughes. It comes from the Irish Mac Aodha which means ‘son of Aodh.’
193. Hyland
Hyland is an Irish variant of Whelan, a surname that comes from the Irish Ó Faoláin, meaning ‘descendant of Faolán.’
194. Hynes
A spelling variant of Hines, an Irish surname that is anglicized from ‘Ó hEidhin,’ meaning ‘descendant of Eidhin.’
Check out more Irish last names with meanings.
Chinese Last Names That Start With H
Chinese last names bear close resemblance to Korean last names and some may even overlap. Chinese surnames carry beautiful meanings that reflect the stunning natural elements. Some have been obtained from ancient dynasties and states.
195. Hai
Hai is a Chinese surname that means ‘ocean.’ Alternatively, Hai may also be derived from the Arabic given name Haydar. It means ‘lion’ or ‘warrior’ in Arabic.
196. Han
Han is not only a Korean surname but it is also used as a Chinese last name. It comes from the ancient state of Han, now known as the Shanxi and Henan provinces.
197. Hao
The Hao surname emerged during the early days as a fief or a fee paid during the Shang dynasty, now known as the Shanxi province.
198. He
A jolly Chinese last name that carries the connotation of ‘to cheer.’
199. He
He is the southern pronunciation of Han, referring to the state of Han. This change in spelling happened after the state of Han was demolished by the state of Qin.
200. Hei
Chinese surnames often take inspiration from colors too. In this case, Hei means ‘black.’
201. Heng
Heng is the Teochew romanization of Wang, a Chinese surname that means ‘king’ or ‘monarch.’
202. Heoi
Heoi is the Cantonese spelling of Xu, a surname that is associated with the minor state of Xu that once existed during the 4th century BC.
203. Heung
The Cantonese romanization of Xiang, a Chinese surname that refers to the ancient state of Xiang, now known as the Shandong province.
204. Hi
Hi means to ‘allow’ or ‘permit.’ It is a Chinese surname, specifically a Hakka form of Xu, referring to the minor state of Xu, now known as the Henan province.
205. Hiew
This surname is the Hakka romanization of Qiu, a Chinese surname that refers to a place named Yingqiu.
206. Ho
This is the Cantonese and Min Nan romanization of the Chinese surname He.
207. Hoa
Hoa is a rare Chinese surname that is also the Hokkien form of Hua, a last name with many connotations. It could either mean ‘to be,’ ‘to become,’ or ‘splendid,’ ‘illustrious,’ and ‘flowery.’
208. Hou
Taken from the Chinese word ‘hóu,’ Hou means ‘lord’ or ‘nobleman.’
209. Hsieh
Hsieh is the alternate transcription of the Chinese surname Xie. The surname was used as a reference for the minor state of Xie, now known as the Hubei province.
210. Hsu
Hsu is the result of two alternate transcriptions that share the same spelling. The first one alludes to the ancient state of Xu, which once existed during the 6th century and is now referred to as Jiangsu and Anhui. It may carry the connotations of ‘slowly’ or ‘calmly.’
211. Hsu
The second Hsu is a transcription of the surname Xu that is associated with the minor state of Xu, which existed during the 4th century BC. It is now known as Henan Province. It could mean ‘permit’ or ‘allow.’
212. Hu
A Chinese surname with varied meanings and connotations. It could mean ‘beard,’ ‘whiskers,’ ‘recklessly,’ ‘wildly,’ or ‘barbarian.’
213. Hu
Another Chinese surname with the same spelling but a different meaning. Taken from the Chinese word ‘hǔ,’ this surname means ‘tiger.’
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214. Huang
A Chinese surname that is based on a color. Huang comes from the word ‘huáng,’ meaning ‘yellow.’
215. Huāwū
This unique Chinese last name Huāwū carries beautiful connotations of ‘blossom’ and ‘flower.’ However, it could also mean ‘shop.’
216. Hui
Hui has two possible meanings and origins. The first is derived from ‘huì,’ which means ‘benefit’ or ‘favor.’ The other meaning and origin of Hui stems from the Cantonese romanization of Xu, associating it with the minor state of Xu.
Check out more Chinese surnames or last names.
Asian Last Names That Start With H
The Asian last names on this list have been taken from every corner of Asia, starting from Armenia to India, and from Persia to the Philippines.
217. Habagat
Habagat is a Filipino surname that comes from Cebuano and it means ‘southwest monsoon’ or ‘southwest wind.’
218. Haber
Taken from the Old High German ‘habaro,’ which means ‘oat.’ Haber was used as an occupational surname for a person who grew oats.
219. Hagopian
Taken from a given name, Hagopian is a unique alternate transcription of Hakobyan. It is an Armenian patronymic surname that means ‘son of Hakob.’
220. Hakim
Hakim is derived from the given name Hakim which means ‘wise’ in Arabic.
221. Hakobyan
Found in the lands of Armenia, Hakobyan means ‘son of Hakob’ in Armenian. Hakob is the Armenian form of Jacob or James.
222. Halili
Halili is a surname that is found in Albania as well as in the Philippines. In Tagalog, Halili means ‘successor,’ while in Albanian, it carries the connotation of ‘friend.’
223. Hamid
Taken from the given name Hamid which translates to ‘praiseworthy’ or ‘praiser’ in Arabic and Persian. In Islamic tradition, Al-Hamid is one of the 99 names of Allah.
224. Hamoy
A Filipino surname that has its roots in the Cebuano dialect. It carries a straightforward meaning of ‘lick.’
225. Hang
Hang is quite popular in different parts of the world. However, as a Khmer surname, it carries the meaning of ‘swan’ or ‘wild goose.’ It was inspired by the mythological bird known as the hamsa.
226. Harel
Harel is an ornamental family name that is extracted from a place name in the Bible. It means ‘altar’ or ‘mountain of God’ in Hebrew.
227. Harutyunyan
Harutyunyan is an Armenian patronymic surname that means ‘son of Harutyun.’ The given name Harutyun means ‘resurrection.’
228. Hashemi
Hashemi is a Persian surname that is derived from the given name Hashem. It means ‘crusher’ or ‘breaker.’
229. Hashim
Inspired by the given name Hashim. It means ‘crusher’ or ‘breaker’ in Arabic. This was the nickname of the great-grandfather of the Prophet Muhammad. He got the nickname because of his practice of crumbling bread and giving it to pilgrims.
230. Hassan
From the Arabic personal name Hassan, the surname means ‘beautifier’ or ‘improver.’
231. Heiman
Heiman is a Jewish surname that is taken from the given name Chayyim, an alternate transcription of the Hebrew name Chaim, which means ‘life.’
232. Hem
With deep Sanskrit roots, Hem is found as a Khmer surname that carries the connotation of ‘gold.’
233. Heng
Heng is a Khmer surname, commonly found in Cambodia. It means ‘lucky’ or ‘successful.’
234. Hermedilla
Hermedilla originates from Batangas province in the Southern Tagalog region of the Philippines during the Spanish colony. It is a rare, modern, and Latinized surname with unknown connotations.
235. Hermidilla
Just like Hermedilla, Hermidilla also comes from the Batangas province in the Southern Tagalog region of the Philippines during the Spanish colony. The meaning of the name is uncertain
236. Heydari
Common among Persian surnames, they are often derived from given names. Heydari comes from the personal name Heydar which means ‘lion’ or ‘warrior.’
237. Heyman
Heyman is a Jewish surname that is inspired by the given name Chayyim. It has its roots in Hebrew and it means ‘life.’
238. Həsənov
Həsənov is an Azerbaijani patronymic surname that carries the meaning of ‘son of Həsən’ or ‘son of Hasan’.
239. Hippy
This rare surname originated in Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. However, the family name is also popularly found across Java Island.
240. Hira
Taken from the given name Hira, the surname finds its roots in Sanskrit from the word ‘hira’ which literally means ‘diamond.’ It is also used as a feminine name in Pakistan and a unisex name in India and Nepal.
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241. Hirsch
Hirsch is a name with two origins. The first comes from the lands of the Germans, Hirsch means ‘deer’ or ‘hart’ in German. While as a Jewish surname, Hirsch comes from a given name with the same connotations.
242. Hoa
Hoa is a Vietnamese surname that was used as a nickname. It carries the connotation of ‘flower’ and it can be spelled as Hòa or Hoà.
243. Hoàng
This is the Vietnamese spelling of Huang, a Chinese last name that means ‘yellow.’
244. Hosseini
A popular last name borne by the Afghan-American novelist, Khaled Hosseini. It is a Persian surname that is derived from the personal name Hossein and it means ‘handsome.’
245. Hovanesian
A slightly shorter respelling and alternate transcription of Hovhannisyan. It is a patronymic surname that means ‘son of Hovhannes.’
246. Hovhannisyan
Hovhannisyan is a patronymic Armenian surname that carries the meaning of ‘son of Hovhannes.’
Did you know?247. Hun
A practical Khmer surname, Hun carries the connotations of ‘investment’ and ‘capital.’ This refers to a unit of weight for precious metals.
248. Hüseynov
Hüseynov is a patronymic Azerbaijani last name that carries the meaning of ‘son of Hüseyn.’
249. Hussain
Hussain comes from the given name Husayn, a diminutive of Hasan, which carries the connotation of ‘handsome’ in Arabic.
250. Hussein
A spelling variant of Hussain. Hussein is inspired by the given name Husayn, an Arabic name that means ‘handsome.’
251. Huỳnh
Another spelling variant of Hoàng or Huang. It carries the meaning of ‘yellow’ and is more commonly used in the southern parts of Vietnam.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the common origins of last names that start with H?
Surnames that begin with H come from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds. However, some of the common origins include German, English, Japanese, and Spanish. There are fewer Italian and Mexican surnames starting with H.
2. Is it uncommon to have a last name starting with H?
Having a last name that starts with H is not fairly uncommon. Depending on the culture, language, and country you come from. Certain surnames like Harris, Hernandez, Hill, Howard, and Hughes are quite common. While Italian surnames such as Hermidilla and House Of Sclafani are considered rare.
3. How common are compound last names that start with H?
Compound names are also known as double-barrelled names that are created by combining two surnames and separating them with a hyphen (2). Since the number of surnames beginning with H are quite common, there is a possibility that compound last names beginning with H are relatively common too.
The last names starting with H on our list have cultural ties and carry significant meanings. From the Spanish Hermosa, which means ‘beautiful,’ to the Asian surname, specifically Khmer Hem, which means ‘gold,’ these last names come from different corners of the world. Be it rare or common names, this list can give you a deeper insight into the origin and connotations of any last name beginning with H.
Infographic: Colorful Last Names That Start With H
In almost every corner of the world, you can find a last name that begins with the letter H. The letter H initiates a diverse array of ancestral identities, from the varied English last names to the rare and precious Italian surnames. Have a look at the diverse surnames that begin with H in the infographic below.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- A Brief History Of The Letter H.
https://www.dictionary.com/e/theletterh/ - Choosing a double barrel surname.
https://www.ukdeedpolloffice.org/double-barrel-surname/
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