VOKES
Vokes
Vokes is a notable British surname with origins dating back to medieval times. This surname is of Anglo-Saxon descent, derived from the Old English word "foc," meaning "fox," suggesting that the name may have been associated with characteristics attributed to the cunning and strategic nature of the fox in English folklore.
Distribution and Origins
The surname Vokes is most common in England, particularly in regions with Saxon influence. Counties such as Sussex, Kent, and Hampshire have historical connections to the Vokes surname. Over the centuries, the name has spread to other parts of the United Kingdom as families migrated for work or marriage, contributing to its presence in various regions.
Notable Individuals
The Vokes surname has been associated with several notable individuals throughout history. One prominent figure is the Victorian actress and theatre manager Rosina Vokes (1854-1894), known for her performances in music halls and comic operas alongside her siblings in the Vokes Family theatre troupe.
Variants and Spellings
The Vokes surname has undergone variations in spelling over time, including Voke, Vaux, Vox, Vokes, and Voakes. These variations are common in historical records due to differences in pronunciation and dialects across different regions of the UK.
Legacy
The Vokes surname, with its Anglo-Saxon roots and varied historical associations, remains a distinct family name that reflects the heritage of those who bear it. Its presence in British history, culture, and genealogy continues to be of interest to researchers, historians, and individuals tracing their ancestral roots.
There are approximately 825 people named Vokes in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,576th most common surname in Britain. Around 13 in a million people in Britain are named Vokes.
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
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- Edward
- Mark
- Michael
- Nigel
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Amanda
- Andrea
- Barbara
- Donna
- Georgina
- Janet
- Katharine
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Melanie
- Rachel
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Sharon
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.