Hooker

Origin

Hooker is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Middle English word 'hoker' or 'hooker', which referred to a maker or seller of hooks or a farm labourer. The surname was likely bestowed upon individuals engaged in these professions.

Historical Significance

The Hooker surname has been present in England for centuries, with records dating back to the medieval period. The name has likely evolved over time through various spellings and pronunciations.

Distribution

The distribution of the Hooker surname in the British Isles has been concentrated in regions such as Devon, Somerset, and Kent, reflecting the historical occupations associated with the name.

Famous Individuals

  • Thomas Hooker (1586-1647) - An influential Puritan colonial leader who founded the colony of Connecticut in North America.
  • William Jackson Hooker (1785-1865) - A prominent British botanist and Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
  • John Lee Hooker (1917-2001) - A renowned American blues singer and guitarist, though not of British origin, contributed to popularising the surname globally.

Contemporary Presence

The Hooker surname continues to be borne by individuals across various professions and walks of life. Genealogical research and DNA testing have facilitated the tracing of Hooker family roots and connections worldwide.

There are approximately 3,854 people named Hooker in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,424th most common surname in Britain. Around 59 in a million people in Britain are named Hooker.

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
  • Colin
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Christine
  • Emma
  • Jane
  • Joanne
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Pamela
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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