What is the origin of the last name Wilkins?
Countries of origin for the last name Wilkins
The last name Wilkins is of English origin and is derived from the personal name William, which itself comes from the Germanic elements “wil” meaning “desire” or “will” and “helm” meaning “helmet” or “protection.” The name William was introduced to England by the Normans after the Conquest of 1066 and quickly became one of the most popular given names in the country. As a result, it also became a common surname.
The surname Wilkins has several variations, including Wilkens, Wilkin, and Wilkyns. These variations may have arisen due to regional or phonetic influences over time. The spelling of surnames was not standardized until much later in history, leading to a wide range of variations.
Historically, individuals with the last name Wilkins can be found throughout England. In the early records, they are particularly prominent in counties such as Devon, Somerset, and Gloucestershire. However, as people migrated and emigrated over time, individuals with the surname Wilkins can now be found across the United Kingdom and in various other parts of the world, including the United States.
In the United States, the last name Wilkins can be traced back to the colonial era. It was brought to the New World by early settlers, and their descendants spread the name across the country over the centuries. Today, individuals with the last name Wilkins can be found in all regions of the United States.
The surname Wilkins has no significant historical or mythical associations. It is primarily a personal or family name, without broader cultural or historical connections. However, the surname does provide a connection to the popular given name William, which has a rich history and numerous associations.
Although the meaning of the last name Wilkins is fairly straightforward, it is important to note that surnames can have additional nuances and interpretations within specific family histories. While the origin and general meaning of the name can be established based on historical records, its significance within individual family narratives may vary.
The surname Wilkins serves as a testament to the enduring power of personal names and their influence on family histories. Through the study of last names such as Wilkins, we gain insights into our collective genealogical tapestry and the multitude of influences that have shaped our identities over time.
Interesting facts about the last name Wilkins
- The surname Wilkins is of English origin and is derived from the personal name Wilkin, which is a diminutive form of William.
- Wilkins is a fairly common surname in the United States, with a concentration in states such as Texas, California, and Ohio.
- John Wilkins (1614-1672) was a prominent English clergyman and natural philosopher, known for his contributions to the fields of science and mathematics.
- David Wilkins (born 1946) is a former United States Ambassador to Canada and a lawyer from South Carolina.
- The Wilkins family name can be traced back to medieval England and Scotland, where it was originally spelled “Wilkins,” “Wilkin,” or “Wilkinson.”
- Wilkins is a patronymic surname, meaning it was originally derived from a male ancestor’s given name.
- According to genealogical records, individuals with the surname Wilkins have also been found in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
- The meaning of the surname Wilkins is often interpreted as “son of Wilkin” or “son of William,” signifying a lineage or association with someone named Wilkin or William.
- Notable individuals with the surname Wilkins include Maurice Wilkins (1916-2004), a British physicist and Nobel laureate, and Roy Wilkins (1901-1981), an American civil rights activist.
Name Rank
#570
There are around 58634 people with the last name Wilkins in the US