Mickens
An English-family surname that is often understood as a patronymic form built on the nickname or given name Mick, with the ending -ens signaling descent or association.
The #6,377 most common surname in the United States (2010 Census) — about 1 in every 57,828 Americans shares it.
Etymology
Mickens is most plausibly an English patronymic surname formed from Mick, a familiar short form of Michael or, in some cases, Nicholas. The final -ens is an old surname-forming ending that can suggest belonging to, or descent from, the named person. In plain terms, the name likely meant 'Mick’s family' or 'the descendants of Mick.'
History
The surname is documented chiefly in English-speaking countries, especially the United States, where it appears as a relatively uncommon name. Like many surnames built from pet forms, it may have arisen independently in more than one family line. Over time, spelling became fixed in the form Mickens even if earlier records varied.
Origin
Regions
Variant spellings
Fun fact
Because Mick is a very flexible nickname, Mickens may ultimately trace back to either Michael or Nicholas depending on the family line.