What is the origin of the last name Hankins?

The last name Hankins has its origins in medieval England, deriving from the given name "Hanco," a diminutive form of the name John. The addition of the patronymic suffix "-kin" denoted "son of," thus forming the surname Hankins, meaning "son of little John." Historical records reveal the presence of the Hankins surname as far back as the 13th century, primarily found in the southwestern counties of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. Over time, the name has undergone various spellings, including Hanekyn, Haukyns, and Hankyns, before settling on its modern form.

Countries of origin for the last name Hankins

The last name Hankins is of English origin and has multiple variations and spellings. It has a long history that dates back to medieval times. The name is primarily found in the United States and the United Kingdom, although it may also be present in other English-speaking countries.

The etymology of the last name Hankins is derived from the personal name “Hankin,” which is a diminutive form of the name “Hank” or “Hannes.” The use of diminutives was common in medieval England as a way to express endearment or familiarity.

The surname Hankins is classified as a patronymic surname. A patronymic surname is one that is derived from the name of a male ancestor. In this case, the surname Hankins indicates that the family is descended from someone named Hankin.

There are several notable variations of the Hankins surname, including Hankin, Hanken, Hanking, Hankenin, Hankinson, and Hinkins, among others. These variations may have originated due to regional dialects or phonetic spelling variations over time.

Research indicates that individuals with the last name Hankins have a diverse range of occupations and professions. They can be found in various fields, including agriculture, business, education, healthcare, military, and more. The surname Hankins is not limited to a particular social class or profession.

Genealogical studies suggest that the Hankins surname is not associated with any specific coat of arms or heraldry. While some families may have developed their own coats of arms, these would be specific to those individual families and not representative of the surname as a whole.

The Hankins surname does not have any significant historical events or figures directly associated with it. However, individuals with the last name Hankins may have played roles in various historical events or may have achieved notable accomplishments in their respective fields.

While extensive research has been conducted on the last name Hankins, there may still be undiscovered or unrecorded information about its origins and variations. Genealogical research is a continuous and evolving process, and new findings can emerge over time. Therefore, further exploration and documentation may reveal additional insights into the history and meaning of the Hankins surname.

Interesting facts about the last name Hankins

  • The surname Hankins is of English origin and is derived from the medieval given name “Hankin,” which is a diminutive form of the name “John.”
  • It is believed that the surname Hankins originated in the eastern part of England, particularly in the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex.
  • The earliest recorded spelling variation of the surname Hankins is “Henken” in the 13th-century Hundred Rolls of Norfolk.
  • Over time, different spellings of the surname Hankins emerged, including Hanken, Hankyns, Hankins, Hankings, and Hankens, among others.
  • The popularity of the surname Hankins has spread outside of England, particularly to the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, following migration patterns over the centuries.
  • Individuals with the surname Hankins have made notable contributions in various fields, including academia, sports, entertainment, and politics.
  • Genealogical research suggests that the surname Hankins may be associated with other surnames, such as Atkins, Adkins, Aitken, Hawkins, and Hopkins, due to similar linguistic origins.
  • The meaning of the surname Hankins is not entirely clear, but it is speculated to have derived from a personal name with the elements “han,” meaning “family” or “household,” combined with the diminutive suffix “-kin,” indicating “little John.”
  • Interestingly, the surname Hankins does not have any documented connection with occupations or trades, unlike many other surnames.
  • Research on the distribution of the surname Hankins indicates concentrations in certain areas, such as the Southern United States and parts of England, suggesting historical migration patterns and settlement.

Name Rank

#1675

There are around 21532 people with the last name Hankins in the US

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