Origin & Meaning of the Tanksley Surname
What does the last name Tanksley mean?
The surname Tanksley carries the meaning "From a meadow or clearing." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 3,325 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Tanksley ranks as the #9,747 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Tanksley come from?
The Tanksley surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Tanksley name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Tanksley trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Tanksley |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a meadow or clearing |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #9,747 |
| US Count (2010) | 3,325 |
| Per 100K People | 1.13 |
| First Letter | T |
Ethnic Distribution of Tanksley
According to the US Census, the Tanksley surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 3,325 Americans with the Tanksley last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 51.88% |
| Black | 42.53% |
| Hispanic | 1.44% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.3% |
| Native American | 0.93% |
| Two or More Races | 2.92% |
Popularity of Tanksley Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Tanksley surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Tanksley surname increased by 212 between 2000 and 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tanksley
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