WHITTAKER
Whittaker
Origin and Meaning
Whittaker is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Old English words "hwit," meaning white, and "carr," meaning marsh or bog. The name was typically given to those who lived near a white marsh or bog, or who worked in or owned such an area. The first recorded instance of the Whittaker surname dates back to the medieval period in Lancashire, England.
Distribution and Popularity
The surname Whittaker is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in the northern counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Over time, Whittaker families have also migrated to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Today, Whittaker is a relatively uncommon surname, ranking around 4,000th in terms of popularity in the UK.
Notable Individuals
-
Roger Whittaker: A British singer-songwriter and musician known for his baritone voice and folk-inspired music. Whittaker gained international fame in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like "Durham Town" and "The Last Farewell."
-
Alan Whittaker: A mathematician and professor known for his contributions to the field of algebra and group theory. Whittaker has published numerous research papers and is respected for his work in higher education.
Coat of Arms
The Whittaker family coat of arms features a shield divided into two parts. The upper section depicts a white background symbolizing purity or marshland, while the lower section shows a green background representing fertility or a bog. At the center of the shield is a crossed red sword and silver key, signifying strength and security.
Legacy and Cultural Significance
As a surname with ancient origins, Whittaker has a rich legacy tied to English history and culture. The name has been passed down through generations, connecting modern-day individuals to their ancestral roots. Whittaker families often take pride in their heritage and may participate in genealogy research to trace their lineage.
In conclusion, the Whittaker surname carries a sense of tradition, craftsmanship, and a connection to the English landscape. It represents a unique piece of British history that continues to endure through the generations.
There are approximately 23,221 people named Whittaker in the UK. That makes it the 362nd most common surname in Britain. Around 357 in a million people in Britain are named Whittaker.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Janet
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Whattaker
- Whitacar
- Whitacker
- Whitacre
- Whitaker
- Whitakker
- Whiteacre
- Whiteaker
- Whitecar
- Whitecourt
- Whiteker
- Whithaker
- Whiticker
- Whitiker
- Whitker
- Whittack
- Whittacker
- Whittacre
- Whittak
- Whittake
- Whittakers
- Whitteaker
- Whittecker
- Whitteker
- Whitter
- Whitticar
- Whitticker
- Whittiker
- Whittker
- Whttaker
- Witaker
- Witcker
- Witeker
- Wittacker
- Wittaker
- Wittiker
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.