Last Names

Surnames / Q

Quick

What is the origin of the last name Quick?

English originDescriptive (a nickname)Rank #1,416 in the US

Meaning and origin

The last name Quick has its origin in the Middle English word "quik," meaning lively or agile. Derived from the Old English word "cwic," ultimately tracing back to the Proto-Germanic word "kwikwaz," the surname Quick was likely initially bestowed on individuals displaying characteristics of liveliness and speed. Over time, it has become a relatively common English surname with a rich historical lineage.

The longer story

A surname is an important aspect of a person's identity, often passed down through generations. One such surname is Quick, which has intriguing origins and historical significance in the United States. Through extensive genealogical research and an exploration of name etymology, we can uncover the meaning and significance behind the Quick surname.

The Quick surname is primarily of English origin, with variations including Quik, Quirk, and Quixley. The name is derived from the Middle English word "quyk," meaning "alive" or "living." It is thought to have originally been a nickname for someone with a lively or energetic personality.

Historical records show that the Quick surname has been present in the United States since the colonial era. It was brought over by English immigrants, who settled in various regions across the country. The distribution of the name across different states provides insights into migration patterns and settlement history.

Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.

Similar spellings

#1,416

Quick was the 1,416th most common surname in the 2010 US Census, with 25,091 people, about 8.1 in every 100,000.

Who carries it

  • White (non-Hispanic)80.9%
  • Hispanic or Latino2.3%
  • Black (non-Hispanic)13.2%
  • Asian or Pacific Islander0.6%
  • Two or more races1.9%
  • American Indian or Alaska Native1.1%

Where it is found

Countries linked to Quick.

Surnames like Quick

Names it is linked with, then names with the same origin and a similar standing.

Check the sources

For a name you are serious about, compare the dictionaries: Reaney and Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames; Hanks, Dictionary of American Family Names.