Forehand
A rare surname that appears to have arisen as a nickname or “virtue” name, probably from the phrase “forehand” meaning foresight or readiness.
The #8,690 most common surname in the United States (2010 Census) — about 1 in every 81,700 Americans shares it.
Etymology
This surname is best understood from the English word phrase "forehand," originally meaning having the hand or advantage in front, and by extension being prepared, provident, or forward-looking. In older English usage it could suggest readiness, foresight, or being well provided. As a surname, it likely began as a descriptive nickname for someone thought to be alert, capable, or forward in manner.
History
The name is uncommon and is recorded in the United States in the 19th century, but the excerpts provided do not give a full origin statement. It also appears in lists of English surnames alongside other names that look like descriptive nicknames, which supports the idea that it developed in that way rather than from a place name or occupation. Modern bearers are mostly in the United States, where the name remains relatively rare.
Origin
Regions
Variant spellings
Fun fact
Early surname writers often grouped Forehand with other name-types that sounded like moral qualities or personal traits, such as Foresight and Prudence.
From the historical record
“In Philadelphia there are seven families of Wol- FiNGER, ^Ir. ViNGER (" finger " 1) ; Messrs. Thdm, Thumm ; Mr. Forehand, and eleven families of Fore- PAUGH ; * Mr. Elbow, jVIr. Xees, and nineteen families of Shinn ; seven families of Bumm ; Messrs. Side and Sides ; Mr. Brow, Mr. Eargood, Mr. Eayre, Mr. Ey, Mr.…”
— Suffolk Surnames (3rd ed.)