Origins of the name Bunn

There are two possible origins:
  • As a nickname based on the personal or physical characteristics of the original bearer. In the case of Bunn the derivation is from the old French word "bon" meaning "good", or from the Anglo Saxon "bun" or "buna" which means "gushing or spirited". Early instances of the name in this context are:
  • Rocelin le Bun, mentioned in the "Hundred Rolls" for Wiltshire in 1273,
  • Johannes Bunne, recorded in the Poll Tax returns for Yorkshire in 1379.
  • As a name derived from the place where a man once lived or held land. In the case of Bunn, this would mean "of Bohun", a place in England of the same name. Early examples are:
  • John de Bunn, recorded in the "Hundred Rolls" for Sussex in 1273,
  • Josias Bunn, included in the "Register for the University of Oxford" in 1618.
  • In the "London and Commercial Court Directory" of 1870, the name Bunn figures six times. Variants of the name are Bonn, Bunce and Bone.

    A noteworthy Bunn was the theatrical manager and dramatist Alfred Bunn (d. 1860).

    Here is the Bunn crest/coat of arms: