Blake

Origin: The surname Blake is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "blæc," which means "black" or "dark." It is a toponymic surname that originated from various places in England known as Blake or Black, referring to dark, fertile soil.

History: The Blake surname has ancient roots in England, with records dating back to the medieval period. The name was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, a comprehensive survey of England and Wales ordered by William the Conqueror. Over the centuries, individuals bearing the surname Blake have made significant contributions to various fields, including literature, politics, and the arts.

Distribution: The surname Blake is widely distributed throughout the United Kingdom, with concentrations in regions such as Cornwall, Devon, and London. It has also spread globally, particularly to countries with historical ties to the British Empire, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Individuals:

  • William Blake (1757-1827): An influential English poet, artist, and printmaker known for his mystical and symbolic works.
  • James Blake (b. 1979): A former professional tennis player from England who achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 4.
  • Emma Blake (b. 1985): A British scientist recognized for her groundbreaking research in the field of genetics.

Variants: Variants of the surname Blake include Black, Blaikie, and Blakeley. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been recorded and adapted over time.

Coat of Arms: The Blake family crest typically features symbols associated with strength, loyalty, and courage. These may include elements such as a shield, lion, or heraldic motto, alluding to the family’s heritage and values.

In conclusion, the surname Blake holds a rich history and continues to be borne by individuals who excel in their respective fields, embodying the enduring legacy of this distinguished English name.

There are approximately 28,994 people named Blake in the UK. That makes it the 278th most common surname in Britain. Around 445 in a million people in Britain are named Blake.

Surname type: Nickname

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Jennifer
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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