Surname Anketell - Meaning and Origin

Anketell: What does the surname Anketell mean?

The last name Anketell is of English origin, and derives from the term “anketil” or “anketell” which was a Norman title of rank. It was given to Norman knights in the 12th century and was an honorific title denoting a distinguished warrior. The name itself likely originates from the French words “anque,” meaning “lance,” and “tille,” meaning “combat.”

The Anketells have a long history dating back to 1066 when William the Conqueror invaded Britain and the Anketells were part of his army. The Anketells were recorded in the Doomsday Book in 1086 which marked the beginning of feudalism in Britain. They were also recorded in the National Archives with other barons and landed gentry. Later, the Anketells were granted two manors in Essex and Suffolk, and in the 17th century, the family seat was established in Wivenhoe Park.

Over the centuries, and especially in modern times, some notable Anketells have been part of British history. Politicians such as Sir Edwin Anketell-Jones (first MP for Barnsley) and businessman Jeffrey Anketell-Jones (British Rail chairman) have held high positions in society, as have members of the family who have served in the military.

The Anketell name is an honored and prestigious one and is still proudly carried in Britain and beyond today. It stands for resilience, strength, and respect, which the family has shown throughout their history.

Anketell: Where does the name Anketell come from?

The surname Anketell is most commonly found in Australia and other parts of the British Commonwealth today. It originated as an English surname, but is particularly well-represented among those with Australian roots.

Anketell is believed to have derived from the Anglo-Norman personal name 'Anketil.' It is thought to be a rare metronymic name, derived from the mother's name (Anglo-Norman 'Ankete'), although some scholars claim Anketel may have derived from the Old English words 'anc,' meaning 'swan,' and 'ethel,' meaning 'noble.'

The Anketell family can trace its earliest roots back to Normans who settled in the region of northeast Lancashire in the 13th century. They were prominent landowners in the area throughout the 14th and 15th centuries. During this period, men called Anketell held several eminent posts, including sheriff of Lancashire and Cook to King Edward III.

In the 17th century, some members of the Anketell family emigrated to Australia. Thus, today the surname can be found in many states, including Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania. Records of the name can particularly be found in the rural towns of the Hunter Valley.

Overall, the name Anketell is still very common in Australia, as well as other parts of the British Commonwealth, such as the UK, Canada, and South Africa. While its origin remains somewhat mysterious, its presence in the region is just as strong as ever.

Variations of the surname Anketell

The variants, spellings, and surnames of Anketell all have the same origin and can be traced to the Old English word “Ancel” or the Latinized “Ancillus”, which mean ‘knight’. Throughout history, the surname has taken multiple spellings, making it difficult to trace its exact origin.

Variants of the surname Anketell include Ancell, Ansell, and Ankstall. These spellings can be found in records in England and Ireland, with the surname appearing in Ireland as far back as 1659.

Other spellings for Anketell include Ancketill, Anketel, Anketle, and Anketell. These versions can be found in Scotland, dating as far back as the 12th century. It is thought that the name may have been taken up by a family from the Lowland region of Scotland, from which it was spread to other parts of the country.

The surname Anketell also has multiple variations, including Ankaidell, Ancketell, Anckotell, and Aneketell. These variations of the surname can be found in England in records as far back as the 13th century.

Finally, the spelling Ankleet can be found in records in Wales, with the surname appearing in documents as early as 1284.

Overall, the surname Anketell has legacy in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, as well as multiple spellings and variations. This diverse history makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of the name, but it has been an influential surname in multiple countries and locations throughout history.

Famous people with the name Anketell

• Stanley Anketell Studdert: World War I Chaplain and Poet
• Robert Anketell Hunter: Seventeenth-Century English Lawyer
• Maureen Anketell: Founder of the Bright Horizons Day Care Centers
• Mike Anketell: British TV Actor
• David Anketell: British Songwriter and Musician
• John Anketell: Member of the Irish Parliament
• Gilbert Anketell Studdert Kennedy: Artist and Poet from WWI
• Michael Anketell: British Composer and Playwright
• Dermot Anketell: Member of the Northern Ireland Assembly
• Elizabeth Anketell: British Food Writer and Columnist
• Colin Anketell: Former Member of the British Parliament
• Richard Anketell: British Politician
• Peter Anketell: British Film Producer
• Emily Anketell: British Actress
• Harry Anketell: English Footballer

Other surnames

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