Perkyn

Perkyn is a medieval English given name and surname, primarily recorded in the counties of Kent and Surrey. The name is of Old English origin, composed of two elements: "per peasant" and "cyning king," which can be translated to "peasants' king" or "king of the peasants."

In medieval England, the name Perkyn was often used to signify a king or leader among the common people, rather than a monarch of a royal or noble lineage. This usage is somewhat similar to the concept of a "king" in some African cultures, where the term is used to describe a community leader or elder.

As a surname, Perkyn is thought to have originated as an occupational name for a royal or noble servant, who attended to the needs of the king or his household. Over time, the name Perkyn became associated with various towns and villages, including Perkin in Surrey and Perkynslade in Kent. Records of individuals bearing the name Perkyn date back to the 13th century, when it was recorded in the Pipe Rolls of Norfolk and Suffolk.

In modern times, the name Perkyn is relatively rare, and is mostly found in England, particularly in the southeast counties where it was historically prevalent. However, the name continues to hold cultural significance, particularly in historical and anthropological contexts, as an example of an ancient title and social hierarchy.