Ridenhour

Meaning

Dweller on a ridge or elevated land.

Etymology

Derived from Middle High German 'Rücken' (ridge) combined with 'hauer' (dweller). The surname likely emerged in German-speaking regions before migration to English-speaking areas.

About the Ridenhour Surname

A topographic surname indicating residence on or near a ridge. The name shows Germanic roots with English adaptation, suggesting colonial-era immigration.

Distribution

Primarily found in the United States, particularly in North Carolina and surrounding Appalachian regions.

Notable Bearers

Limited historical documentation; primarily family genealogy records.

People with the Ridenhour Surname