PORTLOCK
Portlock
Portlock is an English surname derived from the Old English word "port", meaning a market town or village, and "loc", meaning an enclosure or settlement. The name likely originated in a place called Portlock or was used to describe someone who lived near a market town.
Origin
The Portlock surname can be traced back to medieval England, with records of its use dating back to the 12th century. The name was likely bestowed upon individuals who had some association with a place called Portlock or were residents of a market town.
Distribution
Historically, the Portlock surname was most commonly found in southern England, particularly in the counties of Hampshire and Oxfordshire. Over time, families bearing the Portlock name migrated to various parts of the British Isles and beyond.
Notable Individuals
- Nathaniel Portlock (1748–1817): A British naval officer and explorer who served under Captain James Cook during his third and final voyage.
- John Swire Portlock (1794–1870): An Irish geologist and paleontologist known for his studies of the geology of Ireland.
Variation
Variants of the Portlock surname include Portloke, Portlocke, and Portloch.
Coat of Arms
The Portlock family coat of arms features elements such as a chevron and a lion, symbolising strength and valour.
Legacy
The Portlock surname, while not as common as some other English surnames, still holds significance for those who can trace their ancestry back to families bearing the name. Through the accomplishments of notable individuals carrying the Portlock name, the surname has left a mark on British history and exploration.
In contemporary times, descendants of the Portlock family can be found around the world, contributing to various fields and upholding the legacy of their ancestors.
There are approximately 866 people named Portlock in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,258th most common surname in Britain. Around 13 in a million people in Britain are named Portlock.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Adrian
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Richard
- Robert
- Simon
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Charlotte
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Faye
- Linda
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Sharon
- Susan
- Zoe