Last Name Givens

The last name "Givens" originates from the British Isles, particularly from England and Scotland. It is a patronymic surname derived from the medieval given name "Givan," which is a variant of "Given." The given name "Given" is believed to be of Norse-Viking origin, derived from the Old Norse word "gefna," meaning "to give." Over time, "Givens" became a hereditary surname passed down from one generation to another. As with many surnames, variations in spelling can occur over the centuries, resulting in different versions like "Givins" or "Given."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Givens

The meaning and origin of the last name Givens

The surname Givens is of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "MacGibbsh," meaning son of Gibb or son of Gilbert. It can also be traced back to the ancient Gaelic name "Mac Ghille Dhuibh," meaning son of the dark-haired lad. The name may have been originally used as a nickname indicating someone with dark features or complexion. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational surname for those engaged in the trade of handling cattle. Over time, the name Givens evolved into different variations, such as Gibbons, Gibbens, or Givins. The surname spread to other parts of the world with Scottish and Irish migration, particularly to North America and Australia. Today, individuals with the surname Givens can be found across the globe, although the largest concentrations are still found in Scotland and Ireland.

Geographical distribution of the last name Givens

The last name Givens is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the southern region. Due to the historical context of slavery and the subsequent migration patterns of African Americans, Givens is more prevalent in states with a significant African American population, such as Mississippi, Louisiana, and Georgia. However, the name Givens also has additional pockets of concentration across the country. It can be found in other regions, including the Midwestern states of Illinois and Indiana, as well as California on the West Coast. It is worth noting that the geographical distribution of the last name Givens is not solely limited to the United States. With the movement of people and globalization, variations of the name have also spread to other English-speaking countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom. Additionally, some individuals with the last name Givens may have migrated to other parts of the world, leading to a diverse and widespread distribution.

Variants and spellings of the last name Givens

The last name Givens can be spelled and have variations in a few different ways. Some common variations include Givins, Gvens, Givans, Gibbens, Gibbons, Givin, and even Given. These alternate spellings often result from changes that occur over time due to various factors such as regional dialects, inconsistencies in record-keeping, or personal preferences. Additionally, the last name might have further variations or adaptations in different countries or cultural contexts. These could include the German derivative Geben, or the Swedish version Gifvens. It is important to note that while the spelling may differ, these variations generally refer to the same surname and represent branches of the Givens family tree. Understanding the different spellings and variations can be crucial for genealogical research and tracing family lineages accurately.

Famous people with the last name Givens

Two famous individuals with the last name Givens are Robin Givens and Aimee Givens. Robin Givens is a renowned American actress, known for her roles in movies and television series like "Boomerang" and "Head of the Class." She gained widespread recognition for her talents and stunning on-screen presence. On the other hand, Aimee Givens is a celebrated photographer known for her captivating and artistic captures. Her photographs have been displayed in various renowned exhibitions and she has received numerous accolades for her noteworthy work. Both Robin and Aimee Givens have made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and the world of photography.

Genealogical research on the last name Givens

The surname Givens is derived from the medieval given name "Gibbon," meaning "deep thinker" or "wise one." The earliest known records of individuals with the Givens last name date back to England, specifically the county of Lancashire, in the 16th century. Over time, the Givens family spread to other parts of the British Isles, including Ireland and Scotland. The family name gained prominence during the Middle Ages, with notable bearers of the Givens name appearing in historical records throughout England and Scotland. In later centuries, some members of the Givens family migrated to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia, likely due to factors such as economic opportunities or religious reasons. Today, individuals with the Givens last name can be found in various countries, and genealogical research can provide further insights into specific family branches and connections.

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