Discover people named Mary Hancock

The last name Hancock has its origins in England, deriving from the medieval personal name "Hanekyn," which is a diminutive form of "Hane," meaning "rooster" or "cock" in Old English. The name is believed to have first appeared in the 13th century, particularly in the regions of Kent and Sussex. Historically, it was often associated with individuals who may have had characteristics linked to the rooster, such as vigilance or assertiveness, or it could have been occupational, relating to those who worked with poultry. Variations of the surname can be found in different cultures, including "Hankins" and "Hankin," which are common in England, as well as "Hanco" in some Slavic regions. The name has also been adapted in various forms across languages, reflecting local phonetic and orthographic conventions. Overall, Hancock is a surname with rich historical roots and a connection to both personal characteristics and occupational roles in medieval society.