Dick (surname)

Dick (surname)

Coat of Arms of the Dick family

Dick is a surname of English and Scottish origin. It is derived from the medieval given name Richard, which means "brave ruler" or "powerful leader". The surname Dick has a rich history and is found in various parts of the world.

Origins and Etymology

The surname Dick can be traced back to the 12th century in England and Scotland. It is derived from the given name Richard, which was a popular name among the Normans. The name Richard itself is composed of the elements ric meaning "ruler" or "king", and hard meaning "brave" or "strong". Over time, the name Richard evolved into various forms, including Dick, Dicks, and Dixon.

Distribution and Popularity

The surname Dick is found in many English-speaking countries, with the highest concentration in the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland. It is also common in other countries with historical ties to England and Scotland, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable People

John Dick

John Dick (1732–1801) was a Scottish philosopher and economist. He was known for his work on moral philosophy and political economy. Dick's writings had a significant influence on the development of utilitarianism and the Scottish Enlightenment.

Mary Dick

Mary Dick (1866–1948) was an American suffragist and women's rights activist. She played a crucial role in the women's suffrage movement in the early 20th century. Dick was a strong advocate for women's right to vote and worked tirelessly to promote gender equality.

Robert Dick

Robert Dick (1811–1866) was a Scottish geologist and botanist. He made significant contributions to the field of natural history, particularly in the study of fossils and plant specimens. Dick's extensive collection of fossils and plants is now housed in various museums and institutions.

In Popular Culture

The surname Dick has also made appearances in popular culture, particularly in literature and film. One notable example is the character Philip K. Dick, a renowned science fiction writer known for his works such as Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? which inspired the film Blade Runner.

See Also

• Richard (given name)
• Surname
• Coat of Arms