JACOBSEN
Jacobsen
Surname Origin: Jacobsen is a British surname of patronymic origin, derived from the given name Jacob, itself originating from the Hebrew name Yaakov.
Meaning and Variations: The surname Jacobsen means "son of Jacob" and is one of many surnames in Britain that follows the patronymic naming tradition. Variations of the surname include Jacobson and Jakobson.
Historical Significance: The surname Jacobsen is believed to have been introduced to Britain by Scandinavian settlers during the Viking Age, when Norway and Denmark had strong cultural and commercial ties with the British Isles. Many individuals bearing the surname Jacobsen can trace their ancestry back to these early Norse settlers.
Distribution and Popularity: The surname Jacobsen is relatively rare in Britain compared to more common English surnames. It is more frequently found in regions with historical ties to Scandinavia, such as areas of Yorkshire, East Anglia, and the East Midlands.
Notable Individuals:
- Hans Jacobsen (b. 1950) - British-born Danish architect known for his innovative designs.
- Emma Jacobsen (b. 1985) - British actress and playwright of Norwegian descent.
- Anders Jacobsen (b. 1982) - British musician and composer specialising in folk music.
Legacy and Modern Use: Today, the surname Jacobsen continues to be passed down through generations, serving as a link to the ancestral roots of many British families with Scandinavian heritage. Some bearers of the surname have achieved recognition in various fields, contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of Britain.
References:
- Reaney, P.H. & Wilson, R.M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R. & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 683 people named Jacobsen in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,872nd most common surname in Britain. Around ten in a million people in Britain are named Jacobsen.
Origin: Scandinavian
Region of origin: Europe
Country of origin: Denmark
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Danish
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Christian
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Ole
- Peter
- Richard
- Thomas
Female
- Alison
- Anna
- Christine
- Jennifer
- Karen
- Karin
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Victoria
- Vigdis