Jenkins is a Welsh surname that originated from the given name Jenkin, which was a diminutive of John. The name has been in use since the 14th century and is most common in Wales and the English West Country. Notable individuals with this surname include American filmmaker Spike Lee, British actor Richard Jenkins, and Welsh rugby player Alun Wyn Jones. The name is also associated with the fictional character of Leroy Jethro Gibbs from the television series NCIS.
