WILKENS
Wilkens
The surname Wilkens is of English and German origin, which is derived from the given name Wilhelm, a cognate of the English name William. The name "Wilhelm" is composed of the elements "wil", meaning "will" or "desire", and "helm", meaning "helmet" or "protection".
Origins
The name Wilkens dates back to medieval times, with instances of the surname being found in various regions across England and Germany. It is believed that the name was introduced to England during the Norman Conquest of 1066, when it became fashionable to adopt Germanic names. Over time, the surname Wilkens has evolved and diversified, with variant spellings such as Wilkins and Wilkinson also being commonly found.
Distribution
The Wilkens surname is most prevalent in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions such as London, Yorkshire, and Lancashire. However, the name can also be found in various other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, as a result of migration and settlement.
Notable Individuals
- Roger Wilkens (b. 1945): Former English footballer who played for clubs such as Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.
- Elizabeth Wilkens (b. 1980): British author known for her historical novels set in medieval England.
- Sir Jonathan Wilkens (1921-2009): Renowned British scientist and Nobel laureate in the field of genetics.
Coat of Arms
The Wilkens family coat of arms typically features heraldic symbols such as shields, crests, and mottoes, which are used to represent and distinguish individuals belonging to the Wilkens lineage. The design of the coat of arms may vary depending on the specific family branch and historical period.
In conclusion, the surname Wilkens remains a significant aspect of British heritage and genealogy, with a rich history that spans centuries. It continues to be passed down through generations as a symbol of family identity and pride.
There are approximately 122 people named Wilkens in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Wilkens.
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
Female