Fowler

Meaning and origin

The last name Fowler has its origins in medieval England, deriving from the occupation of a "fowler" or bird-catcher. The name is derived from the Middle English word "foulere," which in turn comes from the Old English word "fugelere." As bird catching was a common profession during that time, the surname Fowler became widespread throughout the country. The name has since evolved and spread to other parts of the world, retaining its association with bird-catching and ornithology.

The longer story

The last name Fowler is of English origin and is an occupational surname. It derives from the Middle English word "fowlere," which means a hunter of birds or small game.

The occupation of a fowler was important in ancient times when hunting was a common activity for food and sport. The surname Fowler, therefore, indicates that an ancestor of the bearer had the occupation of a fowler.

It is found predominantly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.