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Last Name Coxe

What is the origin of the last name Coxe?

The last name "Coxe" is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "cocc," which means "rooster." The name is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone who was thought to resemble a rooster in some way. Over time, the nickname evolved into a surname and has been passed down through generations.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Coxe

The meaning and origin of the last name Coxe

The surname Coxe is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English word "cok" which means "rooster" or "male bird." It was often used as a nickname for someone who displayed characteristics associated with the rooster, such as courage or pride. The surname could also have been a occupational name for someone who looked after or bred roosters. The name Coxe dates back to the late 12th century and has various spellings including Cockes, Cox, and Coxes. Over time, the surname spread to other English-speaking countries through immigration and colonization, resulting in variations in spelling and pronunciation. Today, the surname Coxe is relatively uncommon but can still be found in English-speaking regions around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Coxe

The surname Coxe is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the states of North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. It is also present in smaller numbers in countries such as England, New Zealand, and Australia. The distribution of the name may be influenced by historical migration patterns of individuals with the surname, as well as variations in record-keeping practices in different regions. Overall, Coxe is a relatively rare surname with a concentrated presence in certain areas of the United States and scattered occurrences in other parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Coxe

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Famous people with the last name Coxe

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Coxe is Daniel Coxe, an American physician and politician who served as the Governor of West Jersey in the late 17th century. Another prominent figure is Tench Coxe, an American political economist and delegate for Pennsylvania to the Continental Congress. Additionally, James Coxe was a British politician and Governor of Bombay in the early 18th century. These individuals have left a lasting impact in their respective fields and are remembered for their contributions to history.

Genealogical research on the last name Coxe

The surname Coxe is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name 'Cock' or 'Cocc', which was a nickname for an energetic or pert young man. The name first appeared in records in the 12th century in Lincolnshire, England. Early bearers of the name include Roger Cok (1279) and John Coke (1377). The Coxe family has been established in various counties across England, with notable branches in Somerset and Devon. In the United States, the name Coxe can be traced back to colonial times, when Thomas Coxe settled in New Jersey in the 17th century. Today, the surname Coxe is relatively rare and can be found primarily in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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