VanDyke

Topographic

Meaning

From the dike or embankment.

Etymology

Dutch 'van' (from) combined with 'dijk' (dike or embankment), a common feature in Dutch landscape management. The surname originated in the Netherlands and was brought to America by Dutch settlers.

About the VanDyke Surname

A Dutch topographic surname derived from 'dijk,' referring to the dikes that are essential to Dutch geography and water management. The name became relatively common in America and is associated with several notable 20th-century figures.

Distribution

Widely distributed across northeastern United States, particularly in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Notable Bearers

Dick Van Dyke (actor and entertainer, born 1925), Henry Van Dyke (author and clergyman, 1852-1933)

People with the VanDyke Surname

Henry VanDyke