Hancock Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Hancock come from? What does the surname Hancock mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Hancock and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Hancock Origin: What does the last name Hancock mean?
Hancock is an English surname with a meaning rooted in the early 15th century. Derived from a given name, it is a variant of John (Johan) combined with the suffix -cok, which originated from the term "cock" referring to a proud young lad. The surname Hancock has evolved over time, becoming increasingly common in the United States from the 16th century onwards. Today, it is prevalent in the US, with a lesser presence in other countries.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Hancock surname in England, with records dating back to the early 15th century. The surname has shown a notable increase in frequency in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom in terms of prevalence. Detailed data from the 20th century would provide further insights into the global distribution of the Hancock surname, highlighting its enduring legacy across different regions and cultures.
Hancock Last Name History: Where did the last name Hancock come from?
Origin of Hancock Surname: Where does the last name Hancock originate from?
According to the YourRoots database, the surname Hancock first appeared in records from England (United Kingdom) around the early 15th century. It is important to note that this pertains to the exact spelling of "Hancock" present in the YourRoots records and does not account for other potential sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Hancock: How has the Hancock surname evolved over time?
The Hancock surname initially appeared in England (United Kingdom) in the 15th century. Over the next few centuries, the frequency of records with the Hancock surname began to increase, particularly within the United States, which showed a significant rise from the 16th century onwards. More detailed data for this period would enable us to further identify the top countries associated with the Hancock surname.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Hancock surname today?
The Hancock surname saw a notable increase in the United States from the 16th century to the 19th century, surpassing the United Kingdom in terms of frequency in the YourRoots records. In the 20th century, the surname Hancock continues to be prevalent in the United States, with a lesser presence in other countries. Detailed data from the 20th century would provide a comprehensive list of countries where the Hancock surname is found today.
Explore Hancock last name heritage and Hancock surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Hancock Surame?
Herbie Hancock
Herbert Jeffrey Hancock (born Apr 12, 1940) is an American jazz musician, bandleader, and composer. He rose to fame as part of the Miles Davis Quintet, redefining jazz rhythm and pioneering post-bop sounds. Hancock's experimental fusion of jazz, funk, and electro styles, notably in the album "Head Hunters," showcased his versatility. His iconic compositions like "Cantaloupe Island" and "Watermelon Man" are jazz standards. With 14 Grammy Awards and an Academy Award, Hancock's influence on modern music is undeniable. As a professor at UCLA and chairman of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Graham Hancock
Graham Bruce Hancock (born Aug 2, 1950) is a British writer known for promoting pseudoscientific ideas about ancient civilizations and lost lands. He suggests an advanced civilization existed during the last Ice Age, passing on knowledge to early societies like Egypt and Sumeria. Despite criticism from experts for lacking accuracy and impartiality, Hancock has authored several books on human prehistory and ancient cultures. He has also written fantasy novels and delivered a controversial TEDx talk on ayahuasca. Hancock's work has been featured in films and on the podcast The Joe Rogan Experience, where he discusses his unconventional theories.
John Hancock
John Hancock (Jan 23, 1737 – Oct 8, 1793) was an American Founding Father known for his prominent role in the American Revolution. He served as president of the Continental Congress and was the first and third governor of Massachusetts. Hancock's stylish signature on the Declaration of Independence led to his name becoming synonymous with a person's signature. Before his political career, he was one of the wealthiest men in the colonies, inheriting a prosperous mercantile business. He played a significant role in ensuring Massachusetts ratified the U.S. Constitution in 1788. Hancock's legacy as a Patriot and statesman continues to resonate in American history.
Sheila Hancock
Dame Sheila Cameron Hancock (born 22 Feb 1933) is an English actress, singer, and author known for her performances in London's theatre scene. She received a Tony Award nomination for her Broadway debut in Entertaining Mr. Sloane (1966) and won a Laurence Olivier Award for Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical for Cabaret (2007). Hancock's extensive career includes roles in films like The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008) and TV shows like The Rag Trade. With a wide range of talents, she has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Tony Hancock
Anthony John Hancock (May 12, 1924 – June 25, 1968) was an English comedian and actor known for his iconic BBC series "Hancock's Half Hour." Working alongside comic actor Sid James, Hancock's career peaked during the 1950s and early 1960s. His memorable performances in episodes like "The Blood Donor" and "The Radio Ham" solidified his place in British comedy history. Despite some setbacks in his later career, Hancock's influence on the comedy scene remains significant. He won two BAFTA Awards for Light Entertainment Artist and was nominated for Most Promising Newcomer to Leading Film Roles for "The Rebel" in 1961.
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