Kirk Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kirk come from? What does the surname Kirk mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kirk and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Kirk Origin: What does the last name Kirk mean?
The surname Kirk is of Scottish and Northern English origin, with roots dating back to the early 14th century in England. Derived from the Old Norse word for church, "kirk" signifies a connection to religious institutions or areas. The Kirk surname was predominantly associated with England during the 14th and 15th centuries, and later saw a significant migration to the United States, where it became more prevalent from the 17th century onwards. Today, Kirk is the 279th most common surname in Great Britain, with notable concentrations in North Yorkshire, Ceredigion, and Falkirk.
Kirk Last Name History: Where did the last name Kirk come from?
Origin of Kirk Surname: Where does the last name Kirk originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the earliest record of the surname Kirk appears in the United Kingdom, specifically in England during the early 14th century. It's important to note that this is based on the exact “Kirk” spelling within the YourRoots database and does not account for other possible sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Kirk: How has the Kirk surname evolved over time?
The Kirk surname was primarily associated with England from the early 14th to the 15th century, as per YourRoots data. However, a significant increase in the frequency of the Kirk surname can be observed in the United States from the early 17th century onwards. This suggests a migration or spread of the Kirk family from England to the United States over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kirk surname today?
The volume of records for the Kirk surname in the United States grew markedly from the 16th century, eventually surpassing the frequency in the United Kingdom by the 17th century. This trend continued through the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the Kirk surname is most prevalent in the United States, but its presence can also be found in several countries worldwide, reflecting the global spread of the surname over time.
Explore Kirk last name heritage and Kirk surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kirk Surame?
Charlie Kirk
Charles James Kirk (born Oct 14, 1993) is an American conservative political activist, author, and media personality. He co-founded Turning Point USA (TPUSA) in 2012 and serves as its executive director. Kirk is the CEO of Turning Point Action and hosts "The Charlie Kirk Show," a conservative talk radio program. He has been a prominent figure in promoting conservative causes and criticized various issues such as the COVID-19 response and critical race theory. Kirk has expanded TPUSA's influence through initiatives like the Professor Watchlist and raised millions in donations.
James T. Kirk
James Tiberius Kirk (Mar 22, 2233 –) is a beloved fictional character known as Captain Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. He leads the starship USS Enterprise on adventures to new worlds, embodying courage and leadership. Kirk, portrayed by William Shatner, has appeared in TV series, films, and books, captivating audiences with his bold exploration of the final frontier. A symbol of heroism and innovation, Kirk's legacy continues to inspire fans worldwide.
Tommy Kirk
Thomas Lee Kirk (December 10, 1941 – September 28, 2021) was an American actor best known for his roles in Disney films like Old Yeller, The Shaggy Dog, and Swiss Family Robinson. Kirk's career was cut short due to struggles with drug addiction and depression, but he continued to make occasional appearances at fan conventions. He passed away at the age of 79 in Las Vegas, Nevada, leaving behind a legacy of iconic performances in classic Disney movies.
Alejandro Kirk
Alejandro Kirk (November 6, 1998 - ) is a Mexican professional baseball catcher for the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball (MLB). Kirk began his career in Tijuana, Mexico, and quickly rose through the ranks to become a standout player. Known for his impressive batting average and defensive skills, Kirk has become a key player for the Blue Jays. In 2022, he was named an All-Star for the first time and went on to win the Silver Slugger award for his outstanding performance. Kirk's dedication to the sport and his growing list of achievements make him a rising star in the world of baseball.
Justin Kirk
Justin Kirk (May 28, 1969 - present) is an American actor known for his roles in the HBO miniseries Angels in America and the Showtime series Weeds. He has also appeared in films like Ghostbusters and Molly's Game. Kirk's diverse career includes stage performances on and off-Broadway, as well as television shows such as Jack & Jill and Animal Practice. With a talent for both comedy and drama, Kirk continues to captivate audiences with his versatile acting skills.
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