What does the surname Hawkins mean?

The surname Hawkins means "The son of Hawk, or descendant of someone named Hawk.". It is of English origin.

How common is the Hawkins surname?

There are approximately 50,000 people with the surname Hawkins in the United States.

Are there Hawkins soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,922 soldiers with the Hawkins surname appear in Civil War records.

Hawkins

Patronymic

Meaning

The son of Hawk, or descendant of someone named Hawk.

Etymology

Derived from the given name Hawk combined with the patronymic suffix '-kin' (diminutive) and '-s' (possessive). The name originally indicated descent from a man named Hawk or someone with hawk-like qualities.

About the Hawkins Surname

A patronymic surname indicating descent from someone named Hawk or associated with falconry. The name became widespread in medieval England and remains common in English-speaking regions.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 50,000 bearers in the United States #495 most common surname

Rare Common

Widely distributed throughout English-speaking countries, particularly common in England and North America.

Hawkins Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Hawkins Surname

Hamilton Hawkins

Col.

Quick Facts

Origin: English
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval England, documented from 13th century onwards
Estimated Bearers: 50,000

War Records

1,922 soldiers with the Hawkins surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →