Franklin

Revision History

loadingDate    Editor    Change Summary
4/23/2024, 9:35 PM Mike C update #115
5/30/2011, 5:41 PM Mike C earliest recorded revision

Type Surname (from occupation)
Usage English
Pronounced Pron. /ˈfɹæŋk.lɪn/

Meaning & History

Derived from Middle English frankelin meaning "freeman". It denoted a landowner of free but not noble birth, from Old French franc meaning "free". Famous bearers include American statesman Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) and American singer Aretha Franklin (1942-2018).