What is the origin of the last name Pollock?
Countries of origin for the last name Pollock
The last name POLLOCK is of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name “Pollag” or “Pollok,” meaning “Poloc’s lake.” The name is believed to have originated from a place named Pollok in Renfrewshire, Scotland.
Pollok, the place from which the surname Pollock is derived, is a historic estate located in the southwestern part of Glasgow, Scotland. The estate dates back to the medieval period and was once owned by the Pollok family, who held significant influence in the region.
The Pollock family can be traced back to the early 12th century in Scotland. They established themselves as a prominent feudal family and gained territorial power in Renfrewshire. The family played a significant role in local politics and were closely associated with the noble Stewart family.
Over the centuries, various branches of the Pollock family emerged, each with their own distinct histories and connections. Notable branches include the Pollocks of Pollok, the Pollocks of Montgomerie, and the Pollocks of Forth. These branches often intermarried with other influential Scottish families, further solidifying their social standing and influence.
The name Pollock eventually spread beyond Scotland, with individuals bearing the surname migrating to different parts of the world, including North America. The surname Pollock can be found among Scottish diaspora communities in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Today, the surname Pollock continues to exist, with individuals proudly carrying on their ancestral heritage. Genealogical research can allow individuals with the last name Pollock to discover more about their specific family lineages and potentially connect with distant relatives.
The study of last names, known as surname etymology, provides valuable insights into our ancestral roots and the historical contexts in which our families originated. Exploring the meaning and history of last names like Pollock allows us to better understand and appreciate our own personal genealogical journeys.
While the specific details and stories of individual Pollock families may differ, the shared connection to the Pollock name serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of human history and the diverse narratives woven within it.
Interesting facts about the last name Pollock
- The surname Pollock is of Scottish origin.
- It is derived from the Old English word “pollok,” meaning “pool” or “small body of standing water.”
- The Pollock clan is said to have originated from the lands of Upper Pollock near Glasgow in Renfrewshire, Scotland.
- The Pollock family played a prominent role in Scottish history, particularly in the region of Renfrewshire.
- Sir Robert Pollock, one of the most notable members of the clan, served as a Lord of Session in the 16th century.
- The surname has various spelling variations, including Pollok, Polk, and Pollick.
- Some Pollock families emigrated from Scotland to Ireland, where the name can also be found.
- In the United States, the surname Pollock is relatively common and widespread, with concentrations in states like Pennsylvania, New York, and Texas.
- Several notable individuals have borne the surname Pollock, including famous American abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock.
- The Pollock surname has been used as inspiration for the naming of various geographic locations, businesses, and organizations throughout the world.
Name Rank
#1543
There are around 23310 people with the last name Pollock in the US