The Hough Family History

What Does the Hough Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Hough, of English origin, is derived from the Old English word ‘hoh’ and the Old Norse term ‘haugr,’ both of which denote an elevated ridge or hill. Variants of the surname include Huff, Haugh, Hoff, Hoffe, and Houfe. In England, numerous families bearing the Hough name can be found predominantly in the counties of Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cheshire, and Staffordshire. In Scotland, the name is also prevalent in the counties of Lanarkshire, Midlothian, and Dumfriesshire. In the United States, significant populations of Hough families reside in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, and California. Noteworthy individuals associated with this surname include Stephen Hough, a distinguished classical pianist and composer, as well as John Hough, a prominent writer and director in film and television.