Surname Shackles - Meaning and Origin
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Shackles: What does the surname Shackles mean?
The last name Shackles is derived from an Old English word “sceacol,” which means a ring of wood used to secure prisoners. Shackles were used in medieval times, and are still in common use today. They are metal rings or links that restrain a person and in some cases, are used to inflict torture or punishment. The shackles have long been associated with captivity, struggle, and incarceration, and thus, the name Shackles is thought to have been adopted as a surname to reflect these associations.
The surname Shackles is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is believed to have links with the Old English root of “sceacol”, plus the suffix “le” which is believed to have been added by inhabitants of certain regions. The name Shackles is thought to have symbolized strength, determination, and protection from harm. It is also believed to demonstrate nobility as it was usually linked to clans or businesses which had established their own family names and identity.
The name Shackles is found in various spellings throughout the British Isles, with many still having the same derivation. Variations of the name include Shackell, Shackels, and Shackle. Today, the family name Shackles is still popular, although it is no longer seen as a status symbol of strength and honour. Nevertheless, for many, the Shackles' name still stands as a reminder of a wide range of virtues, values, and beliefs.
Order DNA origin analysisShackles: Where does the name Shackles come from?
The last name Shackles is most commonly found today in the United States, where it is the 1,039th most popular surname. The name Shackles is believed to have evolved from the Middle English word "Shakel", which means "to fasten or to manacle". Many of the early Shackles families first settled in New England—Massachusetts in particular. This was likely due to the region's strong religious foundations that provided early religious liberty for many families. The Shackles family name is believed to have come to the United States during the 17th century when many English settlers arrived in America.
Since arriving in the United States, the Shackles family name has spread to other areas of the country. Today, there are many descendants of the Shackles family living all across the United States. The name is particularly popular in the southern states and in California. In Alaska, Idaho, and Nevada the name is less prevalent, but still quite common.
The Shackles name is also quite common in Canada, particularly in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. The name is also found throughout Europe, with pockets of Shackles descendents living in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Holland.
Most Shackles are descended from a small group of early settlers who arrived in New England in the 1600s. However, it is possible that some of the Shackles family are descended from 19th century immigrants from Germany. Regardless of their origin, the Shackles family has been a part of American culture for centuries now, playing a role in its history and continuing to influence society and culture to this day.
Variations of the surname Shackles
The surname Shackles has many variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin. One of the most common forms of this surname is Shackle. Variants of this surname include Shackl, Schackle, Shackleford, Shackliff, Shackelford, Shacklesford, Shacklefords, Shackelly, Shackelton, Shackell, Shackleton, Shacklett, Shacksey, Shackely, Shackleson, Shaikles, and Shibbles.
Surnames of the same origin include Sackles, Sacklesfield, Sakell, Sackell, Sachlee, Sachle, Sackless, Sackelford, Seckles, Sakles, Sacchetti, Sacho, Sekal, Seckle, Sacchi, Sekhles, Sekles, Szechel, and Szaszkiewicz.
Most of these surnames originate from England and Wales, though some spellings and surnames were carried to America and other countries as immigrants with similar names moved around the world. The earliest recorded Shackles family was found in County Durham in England in the year 1273.
The Shackles surname is thought to originate from the Old English word scele, meaning “to lock”. Over time, this name was corrupted to form several different spellings. It is likely that the earliest bearers of the name were skilled locksmiths, as the name could refer either to the locks used or the persons who made and repaired them.
The surname Shackles is still found around the world today, suggesting the rich history of this ancient family name, which has been passed down through the generations.
Famous people with the name Shackles
- Roselyn Shackles: an American actress best known for her appearances in television film productions such as ER and guest appearances in series including Law & Order.
- Earl Shackles Jr.: a former NFL defensive tackle and a two-time Super Bowl champion.
- Taffy Shackles: a successful R&B singer-songwriter and recording artist.
- Sam Shackles: a prominent graphic designer whose work has been featured in several national magazines.
- Joe Shackles: a well-known blues guitarist and producer who has collaborated with multiple popular acts including Keb’ Mo’ and Norah Jones.
- Richard Shackles: a Hollywood actor who has appeared in films such as Training Day and The Good German.
- Scott Shackles: a professional basketball player from New York, who has held multiple leadership roles in multiple different basketball organizations.
- Candace Shackles: a senior editor of an online magazine based in New York City.
- John Shackles: an Academy Award-winning director of both independent and major Hollywood productions such as The Pursuit of Happiness.
- Sarah Shackles: an indie artist who has forged an impressive music career with her soulful singer-songwriter style.