The blog post explores surnames derived from nicknames that have fallen out of common usage. It details how many last names originated as descriptive monikers referring to physical characteristics (like "Little," "Short," "Red," or "Black"), personality traits ("Good," "Wise," "Proud"), or occupations ("Cook," "Smith"). The post highlights the evolution of these once-common nicknames into hereditary surnames, illustrating how a person's defining characteristic or profession could become a family identifier passed down through generations. Now, these surnames offer a glimpse into the past, preserving nicknames that are rarely, if ever, used today.
The blog post, "Surnames from Nicknames Nobody Has Any More," delves into the fascinating etymological journey of several English surnames, revealing their origins in now-obsolete nicknames. The author meticulously explores how these once-common appellations, frequently descriptive of an individual's physical attributes, personality traits, or occupation, transitioned from informal monikers to hereditary family names. The post highlights the evolution of surnames like "Day," originally a nickname for a dairymaid, derived from the Middle English term "deye." Similarly, the surname "Goodman" is dissected, illustrating its derivation from a title of respect bestowed upon the master of a household. The author further elucidates the origin of surnames like "Call," potentially linked to a bald individual, and "Makejoy," likely referencing a jovial or entertaining person. Each surname's etymology is carefully examined, tracing its linguistic roots and offering plausible explanations for its initial application as a nickname. The author emphasizes the historical context in which these nicknames flourished, a period predating standardized surname adoption, where descriptive appellations served to distinguish individuals within a community. The transformation of these temporary designations into permanent, inherited surnames is presented as a gradual process, reflecting societal shifts and the increasing need for formal identification. In essence, the post offers a captivating glimpse into the linguistic and social history embedded within seemingly ordinary surnames, demonstrating how these names preserve remnants of a bygone era's familiar forms of address. The author successfully illuminates the often-overlooked connection between contemporary surnames and the descriptive nicknames that once populated the daily lexicon.
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https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43000316
HN users generally enjoyed the article about surnames derived from lost nicknames. Several commenters offered further examples, like "Micklejohn" (big John) and "Shanks" (long legs). Some discussed the difficulty of tracing surname origins, acknowledging that sometimes assumed etymologies are incorrect. One highlighted the surprising prevalence of nicknames as surnames, speculating that perhaps such names were more common in the past or that they were bestowed with more permanence. Another appreciated the nuance that not all -kin surnames are diminutives, citing "Wilkin" (desirable) as an example. The concept of "lost" nicknames resonated with users, prompting reflections on the fading of descriptive nicknames in modern times.
The Hacker News post "Surnames from nicknames nobody has any more" links to a blog post exploring the etymology of surnames derived from nicknames. The comments section contains a moderate number of remarks, mostly focusing on personal experiences and observations related to surnames and nicknames.
Several commenters share anecdotes about their own surnames or those of their acquaintances. One user mentions their surname being a variant of "little," highlighting its prevalence in their region. Another commenter notes their surname meaning "son of Nicholas," reflecting a common patronymic naming pattern. Someone else points out their family name signifies "red-haired," a descriptor-based surname that likely originated from a physical characteristic.
A few comments delve into the linguistic aspects of surname evolution. One commenter observes the regional variations in surname spellings, attributing these differences to phonetic shifts and historical changes in record-keeping practices. Another user mentions the influence of immigration on surname adaptation, with names often being anglicized or simplified upon arrival in new countries.
Some commenters discuss the social implications of surnames, particularly those derived from less desirable nicknames. One user wonders about the historical implications of having a surname that translates to a negative trait, speculating on potential social stigma. Another comment humorously suggests that some surnames might have been intentionally chosen to be ironic or playful, reflecting a sense of humor within families.
A couple of users express fascination with the topic of surname etymology, suggesting resources and tools for further exploration. One commenter recommends a specific website for researching family history and surname origins, while another mentions the usefulness of online dictionaries and etymological databases.
Overall, the comments section offers a blend of personal reflections, linguistic insights, and historical considerations related to the origin and evolution of surnames derived from nicknames. While not containing any particularly groundbreaking revelations, the comments provide an engaging and relatable discussion around the topic, showcasing the diverse ways in which people connect with their family names.