Last Name Cage

The last name "Cage" has multiple possible origins. One origin is from the Old English word "cag," which means "cage" and was used as an occupational name for a maker of cages or baskets. Another possible origin is from the Middle English word "cage" or "cag," which means "mattock" or "chisel," and could have been an occupational name for a user or maker of such tools. Additionally, "Cage" could be a variant spelling of the surname "Cagge," which is derived from the Middle English word "cag," meaning "key" or "latch," and was likely an occupational name for a key-maker or locksmith. Another possibility is that "Cage" could be a variant of the surname "Cadge," which has roots in the Middle English word "cage" or "cag," meaning "load" or "burden." This suggests that the name could have referred to someone who carried or transported goods. It is worth noting that surnames often have numerous origins and can vary in meaning over time, so it is important to research specific family histories to determine the exact origin of a surname like "Cage" in each case.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cage

The meaning and origin of the last name Cage

The surname Cage is of French origin and holds a rich history. It is derived from the French word "cage," meaning "a cage or enclosure." It was initially a topographical surname given to someone who lived near an animal cage or enclosure. It could also have been an occupational surname for someone who worked as a jailer or a keeper of animals. Over time, variations of the surname Cage emerged, such as Cag, Caige, or Cog. The surname Cage can be traced back to the 13th century in France, with records of individuals bearing this name found in various regions. As people migrated, the surname Cage spread across different parts of Europe and further afield. Today, individuals with the surname Cage can be found in various countries, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and the United Kingdom.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cage

The last name Cage has a relatively widespread geographical distribution. It is primarily found in English-speaking countries, especially the United States. The highest concentration of individuals with the surname Cage can be found in the southern states of the US, particularly in Louisiana and Mississippi, where the name has its roots. This region is significant as it traces back to the ancestral lands of the Cajun people, who initially settled in this area from French Canada. Apart from the US, the name Cage can also be found in other English-speaking countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, albeit to a lesser extent. It is worth noting that the distribution of the last name Cage may have expanded or diversified over time due to migration patterns and intermarriage, resulting in scattered pockets of individuals with this specific surname in various parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cage

The last name "Cage" has several variations and spellings across different regions and time periods. One variation includes the spelling "Cagee." Another variation is "Cager," often derived from the same origin but more common among African American communities. Some other potential spellings include "Caj" or "Kage," which may have been influenced by alternative pronunciation or regional accents. Occasionally, the last name may also appear as "Cadge" or "Caige," adding variation to the name's spelling. It is worth mentioning that last name spellings and variations can change over generations due to factors such as immigration, translation, or transcription errors. Therefore, while "Cage" remains the most common spelling, it is essential to consider these variations when researching family histories or tracing genealogical roots. Ultimately, the many different spellings and variations contribute to the rich diversity and evolution of the surname "Cage."

Famous people with the last name Cage

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Cage is Nicolas Cage, an American actor and producer. Known for his intense performances and diverse range of roles, Cage has starred in numerous critically acclaimed movies throughout his career. He won an Academy Award for his role in the film "Leaving Las Vegas" and has been praised for his performances in movies such as "Raising Arizona," "Adaptation," and "National Treasure." Cage has become known for his unique style and eccentric personality, which has only added to his popularity. Apart from his acting career, he is also involved in philanthropic endeavors, supporting various causes, including helping child abuse victims and firefighters. Nicolas Cage has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, becoming one of the most recognizable and respected actors of his generation.

Genealogical research on the last name Cage

The surname Cage has an interesting genealogical history, thought to have originated from multiple possible origins. One possible origin traces back to the Middle English word "cage," meaning "a cage or enclosure," and could have been an occupational name for someone who made or used cages. Another possible origin could be from the Old Norse word "kagi," meaning "key," suggesting that the name could have been a nickname for a locksmith or someone associated with keys. Additionally, there are records of the name Cage being found in Ireland, possibly as an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname "Mac Cathail," meaning "son of Cathal." As migration and emigration became more common, variations of the Cage surname emerged, such as Kage or Cagge, making researching a specific family lineage an intricate task. Overall, the surname Cage reveals a diverse and multifaceted background, reflecting various occupational and cultural origins.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Cage"
• 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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