HAWKER

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

Hawker

Hawker is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Old English word "hafocere," meaning "falconer" or "one who flies a hawk." In medieval times, a hawker was a person who trained and hunted with birds of prey.

The surname Hawker is particularly prevalent in the south-west of England, especially in the counties of Cornwall and Devon. It is believed that the name may have originated as a byname for someone who worked as a falconer or who displayed hawk-like characteristics.

Over time, individuals bearing the surname Hawker have made notable contributions in various fields, including literature, military service, and exploration. Notable bearers of the Hawker name include Colonel Francis Hawker, a British Army officer decorated for his service during the Napoleonic Wars, and Adrian Hawker, an English poet and translator known for his works in the 19th century.

The Hawker family name has retained its significance and presence in British society, serving as a reminder of the ancient occupation of falconry and its enduring legacy in the country's history.

There are approximately 4,358 people named Hawker in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,153rd most common surname in Britain. Around 67 in a million people in Britain are named Hawker.

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
Richard
Robert
Stephen

Female

Christine
Elizabeth
Joanne
Julie
Louise
Margaret
Mary
Nicola
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

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