Wilkes

Wilkes is a name of English origin, derived from the surname Wilkes, which is itself derived from the Middle English personal name Wilc, meaning "will" or "desire". The name Wilkes has been associated with several notable figures in history and literature, including John Wilkes, an 18th-century British politician known for his championing of civil liberties, and Charles Wilkes, a 19th-century American explorer and naval officer who led the United States Exploring Expedition around the world. The name Wilkes is thought to have been used as a given name more frequently in the United States than in other countries. It was among the top 1000 boys' names in the US during much of the 20th century, with its peak popularity occurring in the 1960s and 1970s. In literature, Wilkes has been used as a character name by several authors, including George Meredith ("The Egoist") and William Makepeace Thackeray ("Vanity Fair"). In popular culture, notable figures named Wilkes include American basketball player Marques Wilkes and English actor Max Wilkes.