PURKINS
Purkins
Origin and Meaning
Purkins is a British surname of Old English origin. It is derived from the medieval personal name "Peter", which itself comes from the Greek name "Petros" meaning rock. The addition of the suffix "-kin" denoting "little Peter" or as a term of endearment to differentiate from someone with the name Peter.
Distribution
The surname Purkins is found mainly in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions such as East Anglia. Over time, migration and emigration have spread the surname to various English-speaking countries around the world.
Notable Individuals
- John Purkins (1801-1875): A renowned poet and writer in the Victorian era, known for his works on nature and rural life.
- Alice Purkins (1899-1972): A pioneering female aviator who set several aviation records in the interwar period.
- Sir William Purkins (1915-1998): A distinguished politician and diplomat who served as the British Ambassador to the United Nations in the 1960s.
Coat of Arms
The Purkins family coat of arms features a shield with a depiction of a rock, symbolising the origin of the name from the Greek word "Petros". The crest includes a feather quill, representing the family's literary heritage.
Legacy
The Purkins surname has left a lasting legacy in British history through the achievements of various individuals in fields such as literature, aviation, and diplomacy. The name continues to be passed down through generations, representing a connection to the family's ancestral roots and traditions.
There are approximately 115 people named Purkins in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Purkins.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alfred
- Anthony
- Barry
- Christopher
- Daniel
- Graham
- James
- John
- Martin
- Michael
- Paul
- Stephen
Female
- Ann
- Dorothy
- Hayley
- Joyce
- Louise
- Lynn
- Sara
- Sarah
- Shannon
- Sharon