Surname Cox - Meaning and Origin

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O. Cox

Cox: What does the surname Cox mean?

The surname Cox is of English origin and is derived from the old English word "Cocc" which means "rooster". The name was given as a nickname to a person who was perceived to share characteristics with a rooster, typically like boldness or cockiness. It could have also been a metonymic occupational name given to someone who raised or took care of roosters. Furthermore, it could be a shortened form for the biblical name "Cockburn" meaning "stream of roosters". Additionally, during medieval times, it was common to use animals as a form of identification and since roosters were common, many people were named Cox. As such, this surname is classified as a nickname, occupational, or a locative surname. It's also worth noting that variations in the spelling of this name include Coxe, Coxon, and Cocks. Over time, people with the surname Cox have migrated, leading to the spread of the name in other parts of the world like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Cox: Where does the name Cox come from?

The last name Cox is of English origin. It is derived from the old English "Coc", which is a nickname for a rooster, indicating someone who resembles a rooster in their strut or behavior. Another theory suggests that it may have derived from a geographic locale, like the rocks. Also, it may be a patronymic surname, derived from "son of Cock." The "x" ending is a common feature of such surnames. Additionally, certain variations of the Cox surname are prevalent in Ireland and Scotland.

Today, the surname Cox is common in many English-speaking countries, but particularly in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, it is one of the top 100 most common surnames in the United States. In the United Kingdom, it is most common in the areas of Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire. Australia also has a significant concentration of individuals with the surname Cox, with the highest numbers found in Tasmania and South Australia.

Variations of the surname Cox

The surname Cox has several variants including Coxe, Coxon, and Cocks. This English-origin surname has evolved from the Old English personal name Cola, a diminutive form of Nicholas, or it may have been a patronymic or locational name derived from places like Cockshut, Cock Green, or Cock Alley in different parts of England. Other related surnames include Coc, Cocks, Cockes, and Cock. It may also have derived from the Welsh name Côch (meaning red or ruddy), or as a nickname for a rooster-like personality.

In spellings, the name Cox may be found as Coxs, Coxx, and Coax. The name has also been Anglicized from similar sounding foreign surnames like the German Koch and the Dutch Cock.

Coxen, Coxson, Coxons are some variants that have derived from Cox as a patronymic surname (suggesting 'son of Cox').

Recusant families in England often changed their names to avoid attention, so you may also find Irish surnames O'Cochlain and MacCochlain Anglicized to Cox. The German equivalent Koch could likewise have been changed to Cox by immigrants in America for simplicity and better integration.

Famous people with the name Cox

• Courteney Cox: Famous for her role as Monica Geller on the television show "Friends".
• Brian Cox: An acclaimed actor known for his performances in movies like "Manhunter" and "Adaptation".
• Carl Cox: Internationally renowned DJ and music producer.
• Laverne Cox: American actress and the first openly transgender person to be nominated for an Emmy for her role in Netflix's "Orange is the New Black".
• Charlie Cox: British actor known for playing Daredevil in the Netflix series of the same name.
• Michael Cox: Former professional American football player who played as a running back for the New York Giants.
• Christina Cox: Canadian film and television actress.
• Wally Cox: American actor and comedian, recognized for his role in the TV show "Mister Peepers".
• Deborah Cox: Grammy-nominated Canadian singer and actress.
• Daniel Cox: Professional British tennis player.
• Nikki Cox: American actress known for her roles in "Unhappily Ever After" and "Las Vegas".
• Sara Cox: Popular British radio presenter and television show host.

Other surnames

Coxe