Hawken

Hawken is a surname of English origin, deriving from the medieval personal name "Hawkyn," a diminutive of the name "Hawk." The name is thought to have originated from the bird of prey, signifying a person with sharp eyesight or who had characteristics associated with the hawk.

Origins:

The surname Hawken can be traced back to the Middle Ages in England, where it was first recorded in documents dating back to the 13th century. The name has variations such as Hawking and Hawkins, and has historically been associated with the south-western regions of England, particularly Cornwall and Devon.

Notable Bearers:

  • William Hawken (1751–1801) – A British naval officer known for his involvement in the American Revolutionary War.
  • Jack Hawken (1923–2009) – A renowned British painter and artist known for his landscape paintings.

Distribution:

The surname Hawken has been prominent in Cornwall and Devon, reflecting the historical connection of the name to these regions. However, it has also spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond as a result of migration and settlement patterns over the centuries.

Modern Significance:

Today, the surname Hawken continues to be present in England and in countries with English diaspora. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and heritage of the British people, reflecting the enduring legacy of medieval naming practices.

There are approximately 1,271 people named Hawken in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,126th most common surname in Britain. Around 20 in a million people in Britain are named Hawken.

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

  • Alastair
  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • Darren
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Gillian
  • Janet
  • Jennifer
  • Julie
  • Kate
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Samantha
  • 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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