The surname "Call" has origins that can be traced back to various European countries. In Old French, it was a diminutive form of the personal name "Col(l)" which meant 'a coal-black or swarthy person', derived from the Latin word "coalitus". It's also found as a surname in Germany, where it is derived from various place names containing the element "Call" (e.g., Kal, Kahl). In Scandinavia, the name could be a variant of the Norse byname Kolr, meaning 'coal'. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname have varied across different regions.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Call
The surname Call is of Old English origin, derived from various sources including "cal(l)" which means 'call', 'voice', or 'cry', or it could also be related to 'Calla' - an Anglo-Saxon byname meaning 'warrior'. It was originally a nickname for someone with a loud voice, or perhaps someone who had the skill of summoning others. In some cases, the name may have been occupational, denoting a caller to the hunt or a messenger. The surname Call has been found in various spellings and forms throughout history, including Calle, Callewaert, de Call, and MacCall. It is most prevalent today in Scotland, England, France, and the Netherlands, though it can be found worldwide due to migration patterns over the centuries.
Geographical distribution of the last name Call
The surname Call is primarily distributed across various regions globally, with significant concentrations found in Europe and North America. In Europe, it is most common in France, where it originated as a diminutive form of the given name Charles. A notable number of people bearing this surname can also be found in Spain, Italy, England, and Germany. In North America, a large population carrying the last name Call resides in the United States, particularly in states like Texas, Georgia, Florida, and Kentucky. The name is also present in Canada, with concentrations primarily in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. Its distribution reflects historical patterns of migration and cultural exchange between these regions over centuries.
Variants and spellings of the last name Call
The surname Call can have various spellings and minor variations. Some of these include Call, Kal, Kall, Kaal, Caille, Caill, Cale, Calle, Calli, Caule, Keal, Keall, Keel, Keale, Kealle, Keyll, Kayll, Kayle, Kyeall, and many more. These differences can be attributed to regional dialects, historical spelling conventions, or personal preferences over time. The original origin of the name is uncertain, but it is believed to have roots in several languages, such as Gaelic, Old Norse, and German. In Gaelic, "cal" means "dove," while in Old Norse, "kallr" could mean "hard, stony, or unapproachable." It's also been suggested that the name may have originated from the medieval Latin "Caule" or "Calle," meaning "hollow staff" or "cane."
Famous people with the last name Call
The Call family has produced several notable figures across various fields. In the world of music, Christopher Call is a renowned American record producer who has worked with artists like Rihanna and Katy Perry. In the realm of literature, Carolyn See, an American novelist, won the Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Prize for her novel "Golden State". In politics, Angela Call, an American attorney, served as a member of the Kansas House of Representatives from 2013 to 2017. Notably, John Call, a Scottish-born Canadian politician, was instrumental in the formation of the province of Alberta and served as its first premier from 1905 to 1910. In sports, Bobby Call, an American ice hockey player, played for several National Hockey League teams during his career. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements of those with the surname Call across different spheres of human endeavor.
Genealogical research on the last name Call
The surname Call originates from Old French "Cal" and Anglo-Norman "Calz," both derived from the Latin word "Callidus," meaning clever or cunning. It was initially a nickname given to someone who was considered quick-witted, intelligent, or resourceful. The name was brought to Britain by the Norman conquest in 1066 and gradually spread throughout the country.
In Scotland, the name Call is often associated with the Clan MacCallum (MacGhillemhaoil), a Highland sept of Clan Chattan. They were traditionally farmers and shepherds, and their lands were located in the Inverness-shire region. The clan gained notoriety during the Jacobite uprisings for their support of the Stuarts.
In England, several notable figures with the surname Call include Sir Richard Call (died 1428), a Member of Parliament and Sheriff of London, and Sir William Call (1650-1736), a Tory politician who served as the Speaker of the House of Commons.
In modern times, the Call family can be found in various countries, with significant populations in Scotland, England, United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
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