The given name Wilkins is an English masculine name with origins that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old English words "wil" meaning "will" or "desire" and "cyn" meaning "kin" or "family." Thus, Wilkins essentially means "desiring family" or "one with a strong desire for kin."

The name Wilkins first appeared in historical records in England during the 12th century. It was initially used as a surname, with the earliest recorded instance being a man named Wilkins de Broke in 1199. Over time, Wilkins transitioned into being used as a given name as well.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name Wilkins as a first name was Sir Wilkins de Frescheville, an English knight who lived in the late 13th century. He served under King Edward I and took part in the conquest of Wales.

In the 15th century, a notable figure named Wilkins Huddleston was a prominent Catholic priest and theologian in England. He served as the Abbot of Stratford Abbey and was known for his writings on religious matters.

During the 17th century, John Wilkins (1614-1672) was an influential English clergyman, natural philosopher, and author. He was one of the founders of the Royal Society and is credited with being one of the first to propose the idea of an artificial language for international communication.

Another famous bearer of the name was Wilkins Updike (1832-1914), an American printer and typographer. He is renowned for his contributions to the art of printing and his work in reviving and popularizing various typefaces.

In the 20th century, Wilkins Vaughan (1896-1986) was a celebrated Australian artist and painter. He is known for his vibrant landscape paintings that captured the beauty of the Australian outback.

While the name Wilkins has its roots in England, it has since spread to other parts of the world and is used across various cultures and communities. However, its etymology and historical significance remain firmly rooted in the English language and its medieval origins.