TheNameDBSHANK
DescriptiveMeaning
A surname derived from the leg or shin, likely referring to a thin-legged person or someone who lived by a leg-shaped geographical feature.
Etymology
From Old English 'sceanca' meaning leg or shin. The term was used as a descriptive nickname for someone with distinctive leg characteristics or as a topographic reference.
About the SHANK Surname
Shank is a surname with roots in physical description, likely applied to individuals with thin or prominent legs. The name has maintained relatively consistent spelling and distribution patterns since medieval times.
Distribution
Primarily found in England and Scotland, with significant populations in North America.
Notable Bearers
Christian Shank (baseball player)