Surname Stokenbury - Meaning and Origin
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Stokenbury: What does the surname Stokenbury mean?
Stokenbury is a surname of English origin. Like many English surnames, it is likely derived from a geographical location. However, there doesn't seem to be a specific town or region in England directly associated with the name. The name is separated into two parts - 'Stoken' and 'bury'. 'Bury' is an old English term often used in place names that stands for a fortified place, such as a castle. It also commonly refers to a borough or a town. On the other hand, 'Stoken' is less clearly defined, it might refer to 'stoke' which is an old English term meaning 'place'. These bits of evidence suggest that the name might initially have belonged to individuals who lived near a fortified place or town. Nevertheless, it's significant to note that surnames can change over time and may not always reflect their original meanings. While these are educated guesses based on the structure of the name and known naming practices in England, the exact origin and meaning of the name Stokenbury cannot be definitely determined.
Order DNA origin analysisStokenbury: Where does the name Stokenbury come from?
The last name Stokenbury is today most common in the English-speaking countries of the United Kingdom and the United States. The name has been present in England since at least the 17th century, with record of one Ralph Stokenbury living in England in 1616. It is believed that Stokenbury is a variation of the last name Stokoe, which originates from a place in Essex with the same name.
In the United States, records of the Stokenbury name begin in the mid-18th century, when the first of the Stokenburys emigrated from England and settled in Pennsylvania. Since that time, Stokenburys have spread across the United States with the highest concentrations in Pennsylvania, Texas, and California.
Outside of the English-speaking countries, the name is not common, though it may be found in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada in smaller numbers. It is also present in various European countries, being most common in Germany, Sweden, and the Czech Republic.
In general, the name Stokenbury is relatively uncommon today and there are few records of large groups of Stokenburys living together. Nonetheless, it is likely that some Stokenburys remain living in the countries where the name is most common.
Variations of the surname Stokenbury
The surname Stokenbury is of English origin and is thought to be derived from the Old English pre 7th Century personal name Stoca meaning ‘poking staff’. It was an occupational name for someone who worked as a farmer or a shepherd on a large scale using a staff or poke to urge on or control livestock. Variants of the Stokenbury spelling include Stockenbury, Stokenberie, Stokembery, Stokembury and Stokemberrie.
The earliest known history of the surname is in the 1500s in East Anglia, where records show Robert Stokemberye in the court rolls of Sussex in 1543. Organised migration across the English Channel then saw the name gradually emigrate and spread east to what is now Germany, with the modern spelling of German Schnoebelen meaning ‘poking staff’ originating from Stokenbury as a result.
Throughout history, the Stokenbury surname has undergone many variations. A spellchecker search shows that Stokenbury has been spelt Stockenbury, Stokenberry, Stokembery, Stokemberrie, and Stockenberrie. It has also been confused with other surnames of similar spelling, such as Stodebury, Stockingsby, Stockingsbee and Stodberrie.
The variants of the Stokenbury name can be seen in the United Kingdom, with families bearing the surname of Stokenbury, Stokemberie and Stockenberrie appearing on the 1881 UK census. In addition, a wide array of surnames with probable Stokenbury origins have been identified in various records in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, including Stoumenberry, Stoumere, Stokembury, Stokenby, Stoakenbery, Sauckinbery, Stakembery and Stockenberry.
Famous people with the name Stokenbury
- Ashton Stokenbury: a professional drag car racer and stunt driver, he is known for his unusual combination of being both fast and precise when driving
- Jennifer Stokenbury: a former professional basketball player, she had a successful career and was a valuable team leader during her time with the Los Angeles Sparks
- Robert Stokenbury: a theatre actor and acting coach, he is credited with helping launch the careers of many actors
- Zoey Stokenbury: a professional figure skater and dancer, she was successful both in competition and on the ice show circuit
- William Stokenbury: a major historical figure who is well-known for his work in the medical field as a surgeon and an educator
- Madison Stokenbury: a well-known Broadway actor and entertainer, she has made a name for herself with her powerful performances
- Kelly Stokenbury: a professional tennis player, she had a successful career highlighted by a title win at the U.S. Open
- Eli Stokenbury: a successful businessman and investor, he is well-known for his philanthropic work with nonprofits
- Blake Stokenbury: an up-and-coming musician, he is known for his thoughtful lyricism and original songwriting
- Victoria Stokenbury: a prominent fashion designer, she rose to fame thanks to her unique designs and runway shows.