Roake

Origin and Meaning Roake is a surname of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "roke," meaning a rocky place or a field strewn with rocks. The name likely referred to a person who lived in or near such a location.

Distribution The surname Roake is relatively rare in England and is found most commonly in the West Country, particularly in Cornwall and Devon. It has also been recorded in other parts of the UK, including London and Yorkshire.

Notable Individuals One notable individual with the surname Roake is John Roake, a renowned geologist and explorer who made significant contributions to the study of rock formations in the 19th century. His work in mapping and classifying rock strata in the British Isles helped advance the field of geology.

Variants Variants of the surname Roake include Rooke, Rook, and Rokes. These variations may have arisen due to differences in dialect or regional accents over time.

Coat of Arms The Roake family coat of arms features a rocky terrain motif, symbolizing the name's association with rocky landscapes. The shield is typically adorned with earthy tones to reflect the rocky nature of the surname's origin.

Modern Significance While the surname Roake may not be as prominent as some other British surnames, it still holds significance for those who bear the name. Many individuals with the surname Roake can trace their ancestry back to the rural regions of England, reflecting a connection to the land and a history of resilience in the face of challenging environments.

There are approximately 411 people named Roake in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Roake.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Anthony
  • Calvin
  • Christopher
  • David
  • John
  • Joseph
  • Martin
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Steve
  • Timothy

Female

  • Caroline
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Lesley
  • Linda
  • Michelle
  • Patricia
  • Susan
  • Violet

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