BROOK

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Brook

Brook, a common British surname derived from the Old English word "broc", which means a stream or small river. It is an occupational name given to those who lived near or worked by a brook. The surname Brook is widely distributed throughout the United Kingdom, with concentrations in regions rich in rivers and streams. Variants of the name include Brooks and Brooke.

The earliest recorded instances of the surname Brook date back to the medieval period in England. Notable individuals bearing the surname include Sir William Brook, a prominent courtier during the reign of Henry VIII, and Rupert Brooke, the renowned poet best known for his war sonnets.

The Brook family name has played a significant role in British history, with various branches of the family establishing themselves in different regions of the country. The surname has been passed down through generations, signifying a connection to the land and nature.

Today, the surname Brook is still prevalent in the United Kingdom and can be found among diverse communities. Many individuals with the surname continue to embrace their heritage and take pride in their ancestral connection to the flowing waters that inspired the name.

There are approximately 12,712 people named Brook in the UK. That makes it the 709th most common surname in Britain. Around 195 in a million people in Britain are named Brook.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

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
Richard
Stephen

Female

Christine
Elizabeth
Emma
Helen
Janet
Jennifer
Joanne
Julie
Linda
Margaret
Mary
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

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