Summary

The surname Duke is of English origin and is derived from the noble title of Duke, meaning a leader or ruler. It is believed to have originated during the medieval period and is associated with aristocratic families. The surname Duke signifies power, influence, and high social status.
There are
35053
Dukes in the USA
Duke is the
995th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Duke

MorganFreeman

Morgan Freeman is an American actor, film director, and film narrator. He has appeared in a range of film genres portraying character roles and is particularly known for his distinctive deep voice.

DavidDuke

David Duke is an American white supremacist, antisemitic conspiracy theorist, and former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan.

PattyDuke

Patty Duke was an American actress and mental health advocate. She started her acting career as a child actor and won an Academy Award for her role in 'The Miracle Worker' at age 16.

DorisDuke

Doris Duke was an American heiress, socialite, horticulturalist, art collector, and philanthropist. She was often referred to as the 'richest girl in the world'.

DukeEllington

Duke Ellington was an American composer, pianist, and bandleader of a jazz orchestra, which he led from 1923 until his death in 1974.

BillDuke

Bill Duke is an American actor, film director, and producer. He has appeared in several notable films and television shows and has also directed and produced films.

DukeSnider

Duke Snider was an American professional baseball player and Hall of Fame center fielder who spent most of his career playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers.

DavidDuke

David Duke is an American white supremacist, antisemitic conspiracy theorist, and former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan.

DukeKahanamoku

Duke Kahanamoku was a Native Hawaiian competition swimmer who popularized the sport of surfing. He was also an actor, law enforcement officer, and cultural ambassador.

DaisyDuke

Daisy Duke is a fictional character in the American television series 'The Dukes of Hazzard', portrayed by actress Catherine Bach. She is known for her iconic outfit, including tight denim shorts, known as 'Daisy Dukes'.

Duke Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Duke' has an English origin and is derived from the medieval occupational term 'duke', which meant the leader of a duchy or territory. This surname may have originally been a nickname for someone who held a position of leadership or authority.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Duke' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern states. It can also be found in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Duke' include 'Dukes' and 'Dukeman'.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Duke' is associated with migration and immigration to the United States, with many individuals of this surname emigrating from England. The name may have also been brought to other English-speaking countries through migration and colonization.