Dominicus History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England
France
Germany

Etymology of Dominicus

What does the name Dominicus mean?

The surname Dominicus was brought to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The name is derived from the Latin "Dominicus," meaning "of the Lord," a name that was borne by the famous Spanish saint who founded the Dominican Order. The name has always been a fairly uncommon one in England.

Early Origins of the Dominicus family

The surname Dominicus was first found in the parish of St. Dominick in the north-east part of Cornwall. At the time of Doomsday Survey the district was taxed under the appellation of Halton, by which name a manor is still distinguished in this parish. It was however, known as St. Dominick in the year 1294, since in that inquisition Sancti Dominici is expressly mentioned.

"St. Dominick, to whom this church is dedicated, was born in Spain about the year 1167, and was distinguished for his vast learning and superior abilities. His piety is said by the Catholics to have kept pace with his talents; so that he acquired considerable fame for his acquaintance with the sacred writings and the mysteries of religion." 1

A far as records for the family, they are indeed rare. In 1405, Robert Domenyk was registered in the Calendar of Letter Books of London. 2

Early History of the Dominicus family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Dominicus research. Another 72 words (5 lines of text) covering the years 1405, 1545, 1641 and 1660 are included under the topic Early Dominicus History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Dominicus Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Dominick, Dominic, Dominique, Dominicus, Dorminay, Dominay and many more.

Early Notables of the Dominicus family

More information is included under the topic Early Dominicus Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Dominicus migration to the United States +

Dominicus Settlers in United States in the 18th Century

John Dominicus, who settled in Virginia in 1733
Joseph Dominicus, who settled in Philadelphia in 1790

Contemporary Notables of the name Dominicus (post 1700) +

Johann Dominicus Fiorillo (1748-1821), German painter and historian of art, son of Ignazio Fiorillo
Dominicus Claessens (1635-1690), Flemish still life painter and engraver

The Dominicus Motto +

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.

Motto: Pax
Motto Translation: Peace.

Sources +

Hutchins, Fortescue, The History of Cornwall, from the Earliest Records and Traditions to the Present Time. London: William Penaluna, 1824. Print
Reaney, P.H and R.M. Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames. London: Routledge, 1991. Print. (ISBN 0-415-05737-X)