Boycott

Boycott is a British surname that originated from the Old English word "boicote," meaning a tenant worker or serf. The surname is of toponymic origin, derived from the name of various places in England. The most notable of these is the village of Boycott in Oxfordshire, which has been linked to the eponymous Captain Charles Cunningham Boycott.

Captain Boycott (1832–1897) was an English land agent in Ireland who became infamous for his unyielding and harsh treatment of tenants during the Irish Land War in the late 19th century. His actions led to a widespread campaign of ostracism and non-cooperation by the local community, eventually resulting in the term "boycott" entering the English language to describe the act of collectively refusing to engage or associate with a person or group.

The surname Boycott is relatively rare, and individuals bearing this name often trace their ancestry to regions where the Boycott family held land or notable positions. Over time, the name has become associated with concepts of protest, resistance, and social activism, as evidenced by the historical legacy of Captain Boycott.

Today, the surname Boycott is a reminder of the power of collective action and the enduring legacy of one man whose actions gave rise to a term that continues to influence social and political discourse.

There are approximately 469 people named Boycott in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Boycott.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Jonathan
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Phillip
  • Robert
  • Robin
  • William

Female

  • Amie
  • Catherine
  • Edna
  • Elizabeth
  • Gemma
  • Joanne
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Louise
  • Sarah

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