Brooks Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Brooks come from? What does the surname Brooks mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Brooks and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Brooks Origin: What does the last name Brooks mean?
The surname Brooks has a rich history dating back to the early 13th century in the United Kingdom. It is believed to derive from the Old English term "broc," meaning a stream. Over the centuries, the Brooks surname has spread globally, with significant concentrations in the United States and Ireland. YourRoots data confirms the presence of Brooks family records in various countries, showcasing its widespread distribution.
By the 17th century, the Brooks surname had made its mark in North America, with records also surfacing in Ireland. Today, the Brooks surname remains prominent, indicating a strong English and Irish heritage. The name's origin from the word "broc" reflects a connection to streams and waterways, highlighting a possible ancestral occupation or geographical association. The global presence of the Brooks surname underscores its enduring legacy and continued significance in diverse cultures and regions.
Brooks Last Name History: Where did the last name Brooks come from?
Origin of Brooks Surname: Where does the last name Brooks originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Brooks first surfaced in records from the United Kingdom around the early 13th century. Please remember that this only reflects YourRoots data for the exact "Brooks" spelling and does not account for other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Brooks: What does the Brooks surname history look like in the early days?
The Brooks surname maintained a strong connection with the United Kingdom from the 13th through the 15th centuries. YourRoots data also indicates Brooks family records appearing in other countries, indicating a broad spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Brooks surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Brooks surname saw a significant rise in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had overtaken the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. The Brooks surname remains prominent in the United States and has spread to other regions worldwide. It appears in numerous countries, showcasing its global presence.
Explore Brooks last name heritage and Brooks surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Brooks Surame?
Mel Brooks
Melvin James Brooks (June 28, 1926 - ) is an American actor, comedian, filmmaker, and songwriter known for his successful broad farces and parodies. With a career spanning over seven decades, he has won prestigious awards like the EGOT and has directed hit films such as "Blazing Saddles" and "Young Frankenstein." Brooks also co-created the comedy sketch "The 2000 Year Old Man" with Carl Reiner and worked on the popular TV series "Get Smart." His impact on comedy and entertainment has earned him numerous accolades, including a Kennedy Center Honor and an Honorary Academy Award.
Garth Brooks
Troyal Garth Brooks (born Feb 7, 1962) is an American country singer and songwriter known for blending pop and rock elements into the country genre. He holds the record for most diamond-certified albums in music history and has sold over 170 million records worldwide. Brooks has won numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and 17 American Music Awards. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, he continues to tour and release new music, with his most recent album, "Time Traveler," released in November 2023.
Gabrielle Brooks
Gabrielle Brooks (born Jan 28, 1990) is an English actress known for her work on stage and screen. She gained recognition for her performance in *Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical* and her early role in Andrew Lloyd Webber's *Whistle Down the Wind*. Brooks is also the creative director of the Mawa Theatre Company and producer of the interview series BlackStage UK. Raised in London with Jamaican and Guyanese heritage, she honed her acting skills from a young age and continues to make a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
Danielle Brooks
Danielle Brooks (September 17, 1989 - ) is an American actress known for her breakout role as Tasha "Taystee" Jefferson in the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black. She also appeared in The Color Purple on Broadway, winning a Grammy Award. Brooks has garnered critical acclaim for her performances on screen and stage, receiving nominations for prestigious awards like the Tony Award and the Academy Award. With a diverse range of roles in film, television, and theater, Brooks continues to shine as a talented and versatile actress in the entertainment industry.
Albert Brooks
Albert Lawrence "Albert Brooks" Einstein (July 22, 1947 - ) is an American actor, director, and screenwriter known for his roles in films like "Broadcast News" and "Drive." He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and has also written, directed, and starred in comedy films such as "Modern Romance" and "Lost in America." Additionally, Brooks has voiced characters in animated films like "Finding Nemo" and "The Secret Life of Pets." Born into a show business family in Beverly Hills, California, Brooks has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry with his unique talent and versatility.
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