Rankin Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Rankin come from? What does the surname Rankin mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Rankin and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Rand, Rank, Rankine, Rankins
Surname Rankin Origin: What does the last name Rankin mean?
The surname Rankin has Scottish and English origins, stemming from the medieval personal name Rankin, which is a diminutive of Ronald or Rand, combined with the diminutive suffix kin. The name was brought to Ireland through the Plantation of Ulster and has historical records dating back to the early 16th century in Scotland, United Kingdom.
According to YourRoots data, the Rankin surname has a strong presence in both the United States and the United Kingdom, with records indicating a significant increase in the surname's frequency in the United States by the 18th century. This suggests a shift in the prevalence and distribution of the Rankin name over time, showcasing its enduring legacy across different regions and cultures.
Rankin Last Name History: Where did the last name Rankin come from?
Origin of Rankin Surname: Where does the last name Rankin originate from?
Based on the available data from YourRoots, the surname Rankin first made its appearance in the historical records from Scotland, United Kingdom, around the early 16th century. This pertains only to the exact spelling of "Rankin" within the YourRoots records and does not account for other potential sources or variations of this surname.
History of the Last Name Rankin: What does the Rankin surname history look like in the early days?
The "Rankin" surname was primarily associated with Scotland, United Kingdom, from the 16th through to the 17th century. However, YourRoots data indicates that by the 18th century, the frequency of Rankin family records had started growing in the United States, suggesting a shift in the surname's prevalence and distribution over time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Rankin surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of Rankin surname records had grown significantly in the United States, eventually surpassing those in the United Kingdom by the 19th century. This trend appears to have continued through the 20th century, indicating a substantial presence of the Rankin surname in the United States. While the Rankin surname remains prominent in the United States and the United Kingdom, it has likely spread to other regions globally, reflecting the interconnectedness of our modern world.
Explore Rankin last name heritage and Rankin surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Rankin Surame?
Claire Rankin
Claire Michelle Rankin (Feb 2, 1974 - ) is a Canadian actress known for her roles in various television shows and films. She has appeared in popular series like Stargate Atlantis and Forever Knight, as well as in movies such as Molly's Game and Seven in Heaven. Rankin has also performed in Shakespearean plays and originated the role of Cynthia Murphy in the International Production of Dear Evan Hansen.
Jimmy Rankin
James Kevin Rankin (May 28, 1964 - ) is a Canadian country and folk artist known for his solo career and as a member of The Rankin Family. With multiple award wins and successful albums, including "Song Dog" and "Forget About the World," Rankin continues to make a mark in the music industry.
McKee Rankin
Arthur McKee Rankin (1841–1914) was a Canadian-born American stage actor and manager. He gained popularity in melodramas of the 1800s and collaborated on plays with Frederick G. Maeder. Rankin's great-grandson, Arthur Rankin Jr., co-created beloved Christmas TV specials with Jules Bass for Rankin-Bass company.
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