Lake (surname)

The surname Lake is of English origin, and has several possible origins. It can be topographical, derived from living near a lake or body of standing water. The word "lake" itself comes from the Old English "lacu" meaning "pool, pond, or stream."

Alternatively, the surname could be habitational, referring to someone who lived near a place named Lake. Such places exist in various parts of England.

A less common possibility is that the name derives from a personal name, although the specifics of such a derivation are less clearly established. It may be associated with an Old English given name containing the element "lac," though this is less prevalent than the topographical explanation.

The surname Lake is found in records dating back to the 13th century. Like many surnames, variations in spelling exist, though they are relatively uncommon.