Last Name Amick

The last name "Amick" is of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh personal name "Emryc" or "Emrick", which was eventually anglicized to "Amrick" or "Amick". Over time, the spelling further changed to "Amick". This surname is relatively uncommon and can be found primarily among individuals with Welsh ancestry.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Amick

The meaning and origin of the last name Amick

The surname Amick is of German origin and is thought to have originated from the medieval given name "Amalric". The name Amalric was popular in the Middle Ages and is derived from the Old Germanic words "amal," meaning "work" or "labor," and "ric," meaning "ruler" or "power." Consequently, the name Amick can be interpreted as meaning "ruler of labor" or "powerful worker." Over time, the name has evolved and been anglicized, leading to variations such as Amick, Ammack, and Amickman. The Amick surname can be traced back to its Germanic roots, where it was likely used to identify individuals with a strong work ethic or those in positions of authority. Today, descendants of individuals who carried the Amick surname can be found predominantly in the United States, particularly in regions with German cultural influences.

Geographical distribution of the last name Amick

The last name Amick has a relatively small geographical distribution, primarily concentrated in the United States. It is most prevalent in the southern and central states, particularly in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. These regions have historically been the main areas of settlement for people with the Amick surname. Additionally, significant populations of Amicks can also be found in neighboring states such as Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. The name has its origins in Germany, and many Amicks can trace their ancestry back to German immigrants who arrived in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. While the distribution of the Amick name remains limited primarily to America, it is possible to find a few scattered individuals or families with the surname in other parts of the world, particularly in Canada and Australia, where migration and settlement patterns have brought about small communities of Amicks.

Variants and spellings of the last name Amick

The last name Amick has a few variations and spellings. One common variation is Amyx, which can be traced back to the early Scottish records. Another variation is Emick, which appears to be a phonetic rendering of the name. Some other possibilities include Amy, Aymick, Ameck, and Amack, all of which may have derived from regional pronunciations or dialects. Throughout history, names have gone through changes due to different factors such as immigration, migrations, and language adaptations. These variations and spellings of the last name Amick highlight how surnames can evolve over time. Whether it's due to simple misspellings, linguistic shifts, or cultural influences, the various forms of the Amick surname reflect the diversity and complexity of our genealogical heritage.

Famous people with the last name Amick

One famous person with the last name Amick is Mädchen Amick. She is a renowned American actress who made a lasting impression with her portrayal of Shelly Johnson in the iconic television series "Twin Peaks" created by David Lynch. Amick's exceptional acting skills and captivating beauty have allowed her to establish a prolific career in the entertainment industry. Born on December 12, 1970, in Nevada, USA, Amick has successfully transitioned from television to film, appearing in popular movies such as "Dream Lover" and "Wounded Land." She has also made notable television appearances in shows like "Gilmore Girls" and "Riverdale," further cementing her status as a beloved and respected actress. Amick's talent, versatility, and dedication have made her a respected figure in the entertainment world, and her contributions continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.

Genealogical research on the last name Amick

The surname Amick has its roots in Germany, specifically in the state of Bavaria. Derived from the Old German personal name "Adalhelm," which means "noble helmet," Amick is believed to have originated around the 6th century. The name eventually evolved over time, and variations such as Amich, Ammick, and Emmecke emerged. The Amick family embarked on a journey from Germany to the United States, particularly to Pennsylvania, during the 18th century. It is said that John Amick was the first known Amick to settle in America, arriving in 1749. Over subsequent generations, the Amick surname spread throughout various regions of the United States, including Ohio, Indiana, and West Virginia. Today, Amick descendants can be found across the country, carrying on the name and continuing the legacy of their German ancestors.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Amick"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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