As described in historical dictionaries

An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names (1857)

Such names as Lyon, Bull, Buck, etc., may have been borrowed from armorial bearings, the shields and banners of war, or for a resemblance to those animals noted for courage, agility, or swiftness, or from signs and emblems over shops and inns.

Arthur, William (1857) An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names. New York: Sheldon, Blakeman. Public Domain.


Patronymica Britannica (1860)

BUCK. The animal, famed in the chase, and familiar as an armorial ensign and as a trader's sign. Le Buc. H.R.

Lower, Mark A (1860) Patronymica Britannica: a dictionary of the family names of the United Kingdom. London: J.R. Smith. Public Domain.


Surname type: Nickname

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

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