Origin
ALCOCK : From Hal or Al a nickname for Henry; and cock, a termination meaning little, a diminutive, the same as ot or kin; little Hal or Al, so Wilcox, little Will, and Simcox, Little Sim, etc.
BRICK : A corruption of Breck (which see). We cut the following, on this name, from a newspaper: A certain college-professor, who had assembled his class at the commencement of the term, was reading over the list of names to see that all were present. It chanced that one of the number was unknown to the professor, having just entered the class. What is your name, sir? asked the professor, looking through his spectacles. You are a brick, was the startling reply. Sir, said the professor, half starting out of his chair at the supposed impertinence, but not quite sure that he understood him correctly, sir, I did not exactly understand your answer. You are a brick, was again the composed reply. This is intolerable, said the professor, his face reddening; beware, young man, how you attempt to insult me. Insult you ! said the student, in turn astonished. How have I done it? Did you not say I was a brick? returned the professor, with stifled indignation. No, sir; you asked me my name, and I answered your question. My name is U. R. A. Brick Uriah Reynolds Anderson Brick. Ah, indeed, murmured the professor, sinking back into his seat in confusion it was a misconception on my part. Will you commence the lesson, Mr. Brick ?
COLT : A name given to one of a sportive disposition, or may be taken from the sign of an inn. Will at the Colt.
HARTSHORN : The horn of the hart or male deer; an emblem or sign over a shop or inn, whence the name, Will at the Hartshorn
STONE : Local. A town in England. The name was probably given to an individual who resided near or by some remarkable sjone, or at a place called Stone. Will at the Stone.
THORN : Local. A town in England; a tree or bush armed with spines or sharp shoots. Will at the Thorn.
VINE : Local. Taken from the plant that bears the grape; a vineyard. Will at the vine. Will Vine.
WAY : Local. A road or passage of any kind; a name given to one who resided there. Will of the Way.
WILCOX : From Will, and cock, which signifies, little. Will's son, Williamson. A willcock, one rather obstinate.
WILLARD : One who has a determined disposition, from will, choice, command, and ard, the Teutonic of art, strength, nature, disposition.
WILSON : The son of William or Will.
WOOL : One having shorty thick hair. It may be a corruption of Wolf, or Will.
More
