Surname Wilkinson - Meaning and Origin

Revealing the Rich Heritage of Wilkinson: A Personal iGENEA DNA Test Experience

Embark on a fascinating voyage of self-discovery with a review of my iGENEA DNA test experience. Learn how the test unveiled surprising revelations about the origins and rich history of the surname Wilkinson and fostered global connections with others sharing the lineage.

E. Wilkinson

Wilkinson: What does the surname Wilkinson mean?

The surname Wilkinson is of English origin and is a patronymic name, meaning it is derived from the name of a father or ancestor. Specifically, Wilkinson means "son of Wilkin." The name Wilkin itself is a diminutive form of the name "Will," a shortened version of "William," which translates to "will helmet," "resolute protector" or "desire to protect." Consequently, Wilkinson can indirectly be interpreted as "son of the willful helmet" or "son of the resolute protector." This surname became popular in northern England during the Middle Ages. Variants of the name include Wilkison and Wilkerson. Despite being originated in England, the name has since become common in other English-speaking countries too, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Wilkinson: Where does the name Wilkinson come from?

The surname Wilkinson is of English origin. It is derived from the personal name "Wilkin," a diminutive of the common medieval name William, meaning "will-helmet" or "resolute protector." The "son" suffix indicates "son of," hence, Wilkinson translates to "son of Wilkin." It originated in the medieval period and is characteristic of an English naming tradition where the father's given name is transformed into a surname.

Today, the Wilkinson surname is common in the United Kingdom, particularly in Northern England, reflecting its English roots. It is also prevalent in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand due to historical migration patterns. In the US, the name is most common in states including Texas, California, Florida, and North Carolina. Despite its English origin, the surname has spread into non-English speaking countries as well, due to globalization and migration.

Variations of the surname Wilkinson

The surname Wilkinson is of English origins and is primarily derived from a patronymic form of the name Wilkin. There are multiple variants and spellings which exhibit regional differences as well as phonetic misspellings overtime. Some of these variations include Wilkison, Wilkenson, and Wilkerson. Others include Wylkynson, Wilkieson, Willkinson, Willikinson and Willkison. Some surnames of the same origin stem from the actual personal name Wilkin, such as Wilkins, Wilkin, and Wilkyn. Similarly, a few continental or non-English versions which have evolved include the Dutch "Wilkens", the German "Wilke" and "Wilken", and the Swedish "Vilkin". Additionally, in some Scottish or Irish families, the surname may have been anglicised from MacUilcín or MacGiolla Choinnigh to resemble the English sounding Wilkinson. However, each variant should be validated with genealogical evidence due to the different meanings in their respective languages.

Famous people with the name Wilkinson

• Kendra Wilkinson: An American television personality model known for her stint in the Playboy Mansion as one of Hugh Hefner's girlfriends.
• Jonny Wilkinson: A retired English rugby union player who is considered one of the greatest forwards of all time.
• Tom Wilkinson: An acclaimed British actor best known for his roles in Shakespeare in Love, In the Bedroom, and Michael Clayton.
• Jemima Wilkinson: An 18th century American preacher who formed the religious sect called the Universal Friends.
• Lisa Wilkinson: An Australian television presenter and journalist known for co-hosting the Today show on the Nine Network.
• Alec Wilkinson: An American writer whose work frequently appears in The New Yorker.
• Henry Wilkinson: A British soldier and gunmaker who founded the gun manufacturer Wilkinson Sword.
• Ellen Wilkinson: A British politician and author who became the first female Minister of Education in the UK.
• Samuel Wilkinson: A British industrial designer known for his innovative work with lighting and furniture.
• Scott Wilkinson: An American artist known for his religious works.
• Suzy Wilkinson: A British songwriter who has written songs for many popular artists like Tina Turner and Celine Dion.

Other surnames

Wilkins