WATKIN
Watkin
Watkin is a surname of Welsh origin. It is derived from the personal name "Wat", a diminutive of Walter, which means "ruler of the army".
Origin
The surname Watkin has its roots in Wales, where it is commonly found in Welsh-speaking areas such as Glamorgan and Monmouthshire. It is believed to have been introduced to Britain by the Normans after the Conquest of 1066.
Distribution
The surname Watkin is predominantly found in Wales and the West Midlands of England. However, it has spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, particularly in countries with a historical connection to the British Empire.
Notable Individuals
- Sir Frank Watkin: A renowned Welsh architect known for his work in designing historic buildings in Wales and England.
- Anne Watkin: A prominent British author and historian who has written extensively on the history of Wales.
- Dr. Thomas Watkin: A respected British biologist who made significant contributions to the field of marine biology.
Variants
Variants of the Watkin surname include Watkins, Watkyn, and Watkiss, among others.
Legacy
The surname Watkin carries with it a rich history and connections to Welsh heritage. Families with this surname often take pride in their Welsh roots and traditional values. The name has also found its way into various aspects of British culture, including literature, music, and art.
References
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.
- Reaney, P.H., & Wilson, R.M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 3,408 people named Watkin in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,679th most common surname in Britain. Around 52 in a million people in Britain are named Watkin.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Amanda
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.