The surname Hovnanian has its origins in Armenia, with its earliest recorded instances dating back to the 14th century. The name is derived from the Armenian word "hoviv," meaning "shepherd" or "herdsman," suggesting that the ancestors of those bearing this surname were likely involved in pastoral activities.

One of the earliest known references to the Hovnanian name can be found in the archives of the Armenian Apostolic Church, where a certain Hovnan Hovnanian is mentioned as a prominent figure in the village of Garni during the late 1300s. Records indicate that he was a respected member of the community and a skilled shepherd.

In the 16th century, a family bearing the Hovnanian surname settled in the city of Van, located in present-day eastern Turkey. This region was historically a part of the Armenian Kingdom and had a significant Armenian population. The Hovnanians of Van were known for their involvement in trade and commerce, particularly in the textile industry.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Hovnanian name appeared in various Armenian manuscripts and chronicles, often associated with notable figures in the fields of literature, religion, and education. One such individual was Khachatur Hovnanian (1630-1692), a revered scholar and theologian who authored several influential works on Armenian philosophy and theology.

In the 19th century, the Hovnanian name gained further prominence with the rise of the Armenian revolutionary movement against Ottoman rule. Avetis Hovnanian (1830-1887) was a prominent figure in this movement, renowned for his bravery and dedication to the cause of Armenian liberation.

Another notable Hovnanian was Yeghishe Hovnanian (1855-1922), a renowned writer and poet who played a pivotal role in the preservation and promotion of Armenian literature and culture. His works, which often drew inspiration from the rich heritage and struggles of the Armenian people, are widely celebrated and studied to this day.

As the Armenian diaspora spread across the world, the Hovnanian name became more widely dispersed. One of the most prominent individuals with this surname in recent history was Kevork S. Hovnanian (1923-2009), an American entrepreneur and founder of the successful homebuilding company, Hovnanian Enterprises. His contributions to the housing industry in the United States were significant, and he was widely recognized for his business acumen and philanthropic endeavors.