Discover people named Nathaniel Hanchett

The last name Hanchett has its origins in England, specifically deriving from the Old French personal name "Hanchet," which itself is a diminutive form of "Hanche," meaning "hip" or "side." This surname likely first appeared in the medieval period, particularly in regions such as Yorkshire and Lancashire, where many Anglo-Norman names took root following the Norman Conquest of 1066. The name may have originally been a nickname for someone with a notable physical characteristic or could have been associated with a specific occupation or role within a community. Variations of the surname Hanchett can be found in different regions, including Hanchette and Hanchard, with slight differences in spelling and pronunciation reflecting local dialects and linguistic influences. While the name is not exceedingly common today, it retains historical significance and is often linked to the characteristics of resilience and adaptability, traits that were essential for survival in the medieval era.