Drinkwater

Origin: Drinkwater is an English surname which is of locational origin, deriving from the Old English words "drinc" meaning to drink, and "waeter" meaning water. Several places in England have borne this name which refers to a stream or water source.

History: The surname Drinkwater can be traced back to the Middle Ages in England. The first recorded instance of this surname dates back to the 13th century in Staffordshire. Over time, families bearing the surname Drinkwater spread to various parts of England, with notable concentrations found in Cheshire, Warwickshire, and Shropshire.

Notable Individuals: Several individuals bearing the surname Drinkwater have made significant contributions in various fields. One prominent figure is Daniel Drinkwater, an English footballer known for his performances with Leicester City and Chelsea. Another notable figure is John Drinkwater, a renowned English poet and playwright known for his works during the early 20th century.

Heraldic Arms: The heraldic arms associated with the surname Drinkwater typically feature elements symbolising water such as waves or fountains. These arms often display a shield divided into sections representing different aspects of the Drinkwater family history and achievements.

Modern Times: In contemporary times, the surname Drinkwater continues to be found across the United Kingdom and in various parts of the world due to migration and globalization. Many individuals with the surname Drinkwater can be found in professions ranging from academia to the arts, contributing to the diverse tapestry of British society.

Variants: Variants of the surname Drinkwater include Drinkeater and Drinkwatter, reflecting historical variations in spelling and pronunciation.

References:

  • Reaney, P.H., & Wilson, R.M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
  • P.H., Fox-Davies. (1909). A Complete Guide to Heraldry. T.C. & E.C. Jack, London.

There are approximately 4,463 people named Drinkwater in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,104th most common surname in Britain. Around 69 in a million people in Britain are named Drinkwater.

Surname type: Occupational name

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
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Stephen

Female

  • Carol
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Gillian
  • Helen
  • Joanne
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sally
  • 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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