REEK
Reek
The surname Reek is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word 'rec', meaning a 'smoke' or 'steam'. The name may have been used to describe someone who lived near a place with strong smoking or steaming activity, such as a chimney or a hot spring. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational name for someone who worked with smoke or steam, such as a blacksmith or a steam-powered engine operator.
The earliest recorded instances of the surname Reek date back to the 13th century in various regions of England. Over time, the spelling of the name may have evolved due to regional accents and dialects, resulting in variations such as Reek, Reeks, and Reeke.
The Reek surname has been borne by numerous individuals throughout history, with some notable bearers making significant contributions in various fields. Today, individuals with the surname Reek can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world, reflecting the historical migrations and dispersals of British people.
In modern times, the surname Reek continues to be a unique and distinctive name within British genealogy and heraldry, representing a link to the ancient traditions and language of the English-speaking peoples.
There are approximately 212 people named Reek in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Reek.
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
- Adam
- Alexander
- Andrew
- Ashley
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Martin
- Martyn
- Nicholas
- Paul
- Peter
- Philip
- Simon
Female
- Claire
- Diane
- Elsie
- Hannah
- Helen
- Jessie
- Kathryn
- Maureen
- Miranda
- Penelope
- Sally
- Sarah
- Suzanne
- Victoria
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.