Dictionary of Family Names

ADKIN, ADKINS, ADKINSON, ATKIN, ATKINS, ATKINSON, ATKYNS, ADKISSON.   A baptismal name meaning "the son of Adam," from the nickname Addy, diminutive Adkin, sharpened to Atkin.  There is no need of course to prove this, but it is interesting to note the following:  'Adam le Fullere,' a citizen of London, is twice referred to as Adekin le Fullere (1273, Hundred Rolls, i. 426).  Six centuries ago Adam probably ranked as second or third favourite among boys' names throughout England.  In the north it attained a most remarkable pre-eminence.  Four Adams are mentioned in the revenues of Conishead Priory, A.D. 1256 (West's Furness, pp. 192, 195).  No fewer than six Adams figure as benefactors of Furness Abbey, circa 1290 (ibid.)  The everyday form was Adekin, then Adkin, and finally Atkin (see Addison).