NomOrigine Background

Last Name Hick

What is the origin of the last name Hick?

The surname "Hick" is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name "Hicke," which was a pet form of the name "Richard." The name "Richard" itself comes from the Germanic elements "ric" meaning "power," and "hard" meaning "brave" or "hardy." Over time, the name "Hick" evolved into a surname and is found primarily in England and some other English-speaking countries.

Please wait, data loading. It may take 1 minute or 2...

Learn more about the origin of the last name Hick

The meaning and origin of the last name Hick

The surname Hick is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "hīc" which means a temporary dwelling or a small farm. It is believed that the surname was originally used to denote someone who lived in or near a small farm or cottage. The name may have also been given to someone who was a newcomer or outsider to a community, similar to the modern usage of the term "hick" to describe a rural or unsophisticated person. The surname Hick has been found in various forms throughout history, including Hicke, Hiccks, Hix, and Hicks. Today, the name is still relatively common in English-speaking countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom.

Geographical distribution of the last name Hick

The last name Hick is most commonly found in English-speaking countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. In the United States, the name Hick is most prevalent in the southern states, particularly in areas like Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. The name is also found in smaller numbers in countries such as Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, likely stemming from immigrants with the surname settling in those regions. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Hick indicates a strong presence in English-speaking countries with a historical connection to immigration and settlement patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Hick

The last name "Hick" can have variations and spellings such as Hicks, Hickson, Hickey, Hickam, Hickman, Hickox, Hickok, Hickok, and Hickman. These variations may have stemmed from different dialects and regions where the surname originated and evolved over time. Each variation or spelling may represent a different branch or lineage within the Hick family tree. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations all trace back to a common origin and shared history. The variations in the spelling of the last name Hick serve as a reminder of the diverse and complex nature of surnames and how they can change and adapt through generations. Family historians and genealogists often encounter these variations when researching their ancestry, leading them to uncover different connections and stories within the Hick family legacy.

Famous people with the last name Hick

Famous people with the last name Hick include British philosopher John Hick, known for his work on the philosophy of religion and religious pluralism. Hick was a prominent figure in the academic world, teaching at various universities and publishing numerous influential books on theology and ethics. Another famous individual with the last name Hick is American singer and songwriter Taylor Hicks, who rose to fame as the winner of the fifth season of the reality television show "American Idol." Hicks has since released several successful albums and continues to perform to crowds around the world. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on their audiences and followers.

Genealogical research on the last name Hick

The surname Hick is of English origin and is thought to be a nickname for someone who was perceived as "tough" or "stubborn." The name is derived from the Old English word "hig-hus" meaning "dairy farm" or "cow shed." The earliest known record of the Hick surname dates back to the late 12th century in Yorkshire, England. Over the centuries, the name spread throughout the British Isles and eventually to other English-speaking countries through immigration. Notable individuals with the surname Hick include American philosopher John Hick and English cricketer Graeme Hick. Genealogical research on the Hick surname may reveal connections to various regions of England, as well as potential links to other surnames with similar origins, such as Higgs or Hicks.

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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names

Hicban (Last name)

surnames > hicban

The surname "Hicban" is of Filipino origin. It is derived from the Tagalog word "hikban," meaning to carry someone on one's back.

Hichour (Last name)

surnames > hichour

The last name "Hichour" is of Arabic origin. It is believed to be derived from the Arabic word "Hichour," which means "wall" or "barrier." This surname may have been given to someo...

Hichri (Last name)

surnames > hichri

The last name "Hichri" is of Arabic origin. It is a common surname in Tunisia and is believed to have originated from the Arabic word "hichri," which means "lion."

Hicks (Last name)

surnames > hicks

The last name "Hicks" is of English origin. It derives from the medieval given name "Hicke," which is a diminutive form of "Richard." "Richard" itself comes from the Old Germanic n...

Hicoxaciang (Last name)

surnames > hicoxaciang

The last name "Hicoxaciang" does not appear to have an established origin or meaning in English. It is possible that it is a rare or unique surname that does not have a widely know...