Surname Boykin - Meaning and Origin

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H. Boykin

Boykin: What does the surname Boykin mean?

The surname Boykin likely has English origins. It appears to be a patronymic surname derived from the Middle English personal name Boi or Boy, which was a term of endearment similar to ‘lad’ or ‘brother’. The suffix “-kin” is of Dutch or Low German origins and denotes ‘son of’ or 'little'. Therefore, the name Boykin could essentially mean 'son of Boy'. Natives who bear this name are largely concentrated in the southern parts of the United States, particularly in Georgia. It is also the name of a popular breed of dog, the Boykin Spaniel, which is native to the same region. As with all surnames, the specific significance may vary within different families. Please note that the accuracy of surname origins can sometimes be uncertain due to historic record variations and migrations.

Boykin: Where does the name Boykin come from?

The surname Boykin is of English origin, deriving from the medieval occupational name for a person who worked or lived at an orchard or garden. It is a compound of the Old English elements "boye," meaning knave or servant and "kin," meaning kinship or character. The name first appeared in Lancashire, where the Boykin family held a family seat as Lords of the Manor.

Today, Boykin is most common in the United States, particularly in the southern states. During the British colonial period, many English families emigrated to America for economic opportunities and religious freedom. The family name spread widely, particularly in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Over time, Boykin became a prominent surname in these areas. Particularly notable is the village of Boykin in South Carolina, named after a local family of the Boykin surname who were influential in the area’s development.

Outside the U.S., Boykin is less common but can still be found in England and other English-speaking countries such as Australia and Canada. In summary, the Boykin surname traces its roots back to England but has found a large home in America.

Variations of the surname Boykin

The surname Boykin originates from England and is believed to be an anglicized version of different variations of the original surname. It’s thought to derive from the Old English word 'boc', meaning beech tree, and the suffix '-kin', denoting little or son of. Several alternate spellings and variants of the surname Boykin have been recorded over time.

These include Boyken, Boykins, Boiken, and Boyken. In some cases, the spelling has been altered in different ways based on pronunciation or due to migration. Some families may have used Boykyn, Boykinn, or Boikin. Depending on the region and the period, the variations might also include Bykin or Boycan.

There are other surnames derived from the same origin such as Bouckin and Bokin. Further research might identify additional variations and deviations from the original name. Due to immigration and the subsequent anglicization, this surname and its variants may be found in different nations including the USA, Canada, and Australia.

The spelling of surnames often evolved over centuries and can present challenges in family history research. While these surnames have the same or similar origins, it’s important to consider that individual family lines may have different histories attached to the name.

Famous people with the name Boykin

• Charles "Peanut" Tillman Boykin: A former football cornerback who spent his career in National Football League (NFL) primarily with the Chicago Bears.
• Boykin Curry: A managing director at Eagle Capital Management, a highly successful investor, and social activist.
• Christopher J. Boykin: Known as "Big Black", was a television actor and musician, recognized for his role in MTV's Rob & Big.
• Keith Boykin: A recognized CNN political commentator, New York Times bestselling author, and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Dr. Earl Boykins: A well-known pianist, music educator, and advocate for music and arts appreciation.
• Jarrett Boykin: A former American NFL player, he was a wide receiver for Green Bay Packers and Carolina Panthers.
• Mary Boykin Chesnut: An author from the Civil War era known for her diary that was published posthumously, providing a valuable first-hand account of the Confederacy.
• Willie Boykin: A former professional basketball player.
• Jeffery Boykin: A television producer known for his work on reality competition shows.
• Blake Boykin: A rising American actor known for his roles in a number of short films and television series.
• Donald Boykin: A former NASCAR driver, recognized for his participation in the Grand National Series.

Other surnames

Boykiw