All about the name
Wilkinson
Male
« Wilkinson is an uncommon English given name derived from the occupational surname Wilkinson, originally held by wool-winders in medieval England. It combines "wil," meaning "will" or "determination," with "-kin," denoting association or relationship. »
#23074
over 10 years
Meaning, origin, history
Wilkinson is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. Its meaning is derived from the occupational surname Wilkinson, which was originally given to someone who worked as a wool-winder. The name is composed of two elements: "wil" meaning "will" or "determination," and "-kin" which denotes association or relationship.
The history of Wilkinson can be traced back to medieval England, where surnames were first introduced in the late 12th century. As occupational names became common, Wilkinson was likely adopted by those who worked in the textile industry, specifically as wool-winders. These individuals would have been responsible for winding yarn into balls or skeins for use in knitting and weaving.
Over time, Wilkinson transitioned from an occupational surname to a given name. Today, it is still relatively uncommon but can be found predominantly among English-speaking populations. While it may not be widely known, Wilkinson has a rich history and unique meaning that sets it apart from more common names. Its distinctiveness could make it an appealing choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their child.
In terms of popularity, Wilkinson has not ranked among the most common names in recent years. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, only a handful of babies have been named Wilkinson each year since records began being kept in 1900. This scarcity contributes to its uniqueness and exclusivity as a given name.
Overall, Wilkinson is an intriguing choice for parents seeking a rare yet meaningful name with English origins and a historical connection to the textile industry. Its determination-related meaning and occupational roots provide insight into the character and history of those who bear this distinctive moniker.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Wilkinson since 1880
Total births
10
Total since 1880
Peak year
2001
5 births
in 2014
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
↘
vs previous 5 years