Tennille

Most recognized as an American and Canadian last name inspired by the French Tenaille, Tennille's exact meaning and origin is not that easy to track down. It likely derives from the French word tenaille, a variant of the Italian tenaglia, meaning "pincers" or "pliers." With meanings that allude to craftsmanship and care, Tennille has an artistic yet practical flavor to it. This star-studded name is borne by the iconically '70s American singer Toni Tennille, who made up half of the duo Captain & Tennille. Tennille is considered a feminine moniker, but its history as a last name gives it a gender-neutral feel.