WICKENS
Wickens
Wickens, a surname of English origin, is derived from the personal name "Wicken", which itself is a diminutive of "Wicca". The name is associated with the regions of Cornwall and Devon in South West England.
Etymology and Origins
The surname Wickens is believed to have originated from the Old English word "wic", meaning "village" or "dwelling", and the suffix "-en" denoting "son of". Therefore, Wickens likely means "son of Wicken" or "son of the dweller in the village".
Historical Significance
The earliest recorded instance of the surname Wickens dates back to the 13th century, where it is found in various forms such as Wykin, Wykyn, and Wickenes. The name became more prominent in the following centuries, particularly in the counties of Cornwall and Devon.
Distribution and Variants
Over time, the surname Wickens has seen variations in spelling, including Wicken, Wickin, and Wykin. The name has spread beyond its original locations, and individuals bearing the surname can now be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world, particularly in former British colonies.
Notable Individuals
Several notable individuals have borne the surname Wickens throughout history, contributing to various fields such as arts, sciences, and sports. While records of these individuals are not exhaustive, they have left a mark on their respective fields and communities.
References
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
The surname Wickens remains a distinctive part of British heritage, reflecting the history and diversity of familial names in the United Kingdom.
There are approximately 3,098 people named Wickens in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,907th most common surname in Britain. Around 48 in a million people in Britain are named Wickens.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Brian
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Ann
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Jean
- Katherine
- Kelly
- Linda
- Patricia
- Samantha
- Sarah
- Susan