Hills

Origin and Meaning:
Hills is a surname of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "hull" or "hild," meaning "hill" or "upland." The name likely originated as a toponymic surname, used to identify individuals who lived by or on a hill.

Distribution and Population:
The surname Hills is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions with hilly terrain. It is also present in various former British colonies, reflecting the legacy of British colonialism and migration patterns.

Historical Significance:
The Hills surname has a long history in England, with records dating back to medieval times. Individuals bearing the surname have been documented in various historical archives, including census records, church registers, and legal documents. Notable figures with the surname Hills have made contributions to fields such as art, literature, academia, and politics.

Coat of Arms:
The Hills family coat of arms typically features symbols such as hills or peaks, reflecting the surname's connection to elevated landforms. These coats of arms may vary depending on the specific branch of the family and its heraldic traditions.

Variants and Derivatives:
Variants of the surname Hills may include Hill, Hillary, and Hillyard, among others. These variations reflect regional accents, phonetic changes over time, and influences from other languages.

Modern Demographics:
In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Hills can be found across the United Kingdom and around the world. The name continues to be passed down through generations, contributing to the diversity of the global population.

Famous Individuals:
Notable individuals with the surname Hills include:

  • Barbara Hills (1924-1994) - British sculptor known for her works in bronze and stone.
  • Ben Hills - Australian investigative journalist and author.
  • Tymothy Hills - British politician who served as a Member of Parliament in the 19th century.

References:
For further information on the Hills surname and its historical significance, one may consult genealogical records, surname databases, and academic publications focusing on British surnames and family history.

There are approximately 14,167 people named Hills in the UK. That makes it the 628th most common surname in Britain. Around 218 in a million people in Britain are named Hills.

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
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Beverley
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Jane
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • 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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