The surname Macek is of Czech and Slovak origin. It is derived from the male given name Maca, which is a short form of names beginning with Mac- such as Maksimilian or Maciej. In some cases, it can also be a diminutive of the female given name Markéta. This name has been used in Central Europe for centuries and was brought to North America by immigrants from Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic) and Slovakia during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The surname Macek is of Slavic origin, specifically from the Czech and Slovak languages. It is derived from the given name Maceta or Maksimilian, which were popular names among Slavic peoples during the Middle Ages. The name Maceta is a diminutive form of the name Marta (Mary), while Maksimilian originated from Maximillian, a combination of the Latin Maximus (greatest) and the German name Wilhelm. Over time, these names were passed down through generations to create the surname Macek, which is commonly found in Central Europe, particularly in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The name carries no specific historical or religious significance beyond its Slavic roots.
The last name Macek is predominantly found in Central Europe, particularly within the borders of modern-day Croatia and Slovenia. It also has significant presence in neighboring countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, and the northern regions of Italy and Austria. The name Macek is thought to have originated from the Czech word "másek," meaning a mask or disguise, suggesting a potential association with theatrical or performing arts communities in these areas. Additionally, smaller populations bearing this surname can be found scattered across North America, primarily in communities with substantial Slavic immigrant populations, such as Canada and the United States.
The surname Macek has several variations and spellings, reflecting its origins and the regional pronunciation differences over time. Some common variations include Macec, Maksek, Makcek, Macak, Matschek, Matzek, Matschik, Matschi, Matsche, Matschewitz, Matschyk, and Matsich. These variations stem from the original Czech and Slovak spelling, which can change depending on geographical location. The name is also found in other Slavic countries, such as Croatia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina, where the pronunciation may differ slightly but the basic spelling remains similar. It's essential to note that family names often undergo changes due to linguistic evolution, migration, and transcribing errors over generations, leading to the diversity seen in this surname.
Notable individuals with the surname Macek include:
1. Ridley Scott Macek, an American animation director who worked on the "Street Fighter" animated series and contributed to the development of the popular video game franchise.
2. Jodie Sweetin Macek, an American actress known for her roles in "Full House" and its sequel, "Fuller House."
3. Zdenko Macek, a Croatian poet and writer who was active during the 20th century. His works reflect on his experiences as a Partisan fighter during World War II.
4. Paul A. Macek, an American political scientist who specializes in international relations and comparative politics. He has authored several books and articles on these topics.
5. Tomáš Macek, a Czech journalist and former politician who served as Minister of Foreign Affairs. He is known for his role in the Velvet Revolution that ended communist rule in Czechoslovakia.
The surname Macek originates from Central Europe, primarily Czechoslovakia and neighboring regions. It is a variation of the original Slavic personal name Maksimilian or Maximilian, which means "greatest" or "one who makes great". The Macek family can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with early records found in Bohemia during the 13th century. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name have evolved due to regional dialects and migrations. In the 19th and 20th centuries, many Maceks emigrated from the Austro-Hungarian Empire to other parts of Europe and North America in search of better opportunities, contributing to a diverse distribution of the surname today. Notable individuals with this name include Milan Macek, a Czech politician, and John Macek, an American basketball coach.
Chargement de la carte...
Enter the surname you are looking for below:
surnames > mac-d
The last name "MacD" is of Scottish origin, derived from the patronymic surname meaning "son of D." It is a common prefix in Scottish surnames, denoting descent from a specific anc...
surnames > mac-araeg
The surname Mac Araeg has its origins in Ireland. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac an Ríogh", meaning "son of the king". This surname was traditionally borne by descendants...
surnames > macabalan
The last name "Macabalan" is of Filipino origin. It is derived from the port district in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. The name is likely to have originated from the local plac...
surnames > macabansag
The last name Macabansag is of Filipino origin. It is derived from the Tagalog word "kabansag" meaning "famous" or "renowned."
surnames > macabante
The last name Macabante is of Filipino origin. It is derived from the Tagalog word "kabante," meaning brave or courageous.
surnames > macabebe
The last name "Macabebe" has its origin in the Philippines, particularly in the town of Macabebe in the province of Pampanga. The surname is often associated with families of Kapam...
surnames > macabidang
The last name "Macabidang" is of Filipino origin. It is derived from the Tagalog word "kabidang," which means "partner" or "companion." This surname is commonly found in the Philip...
surnames > macabinlar
The last name Macabinlar has its origin in the Philippines. It is derived from the word "kabinlar," which means "north" in the Maranao language, a language spoken by the Maranao pe...
surnames > macabou
The last name Macabou is a name that comes from the Caribbean culture, and more specifically from Martinique. It is probably of Creole origin and can have African roots. Unfortunat...
surnames > macadag-um
The last name "Macadagum" is of Filipino origin. It is derived from the word "kadagum," which means "bravery" or "courage" in the Maguindanao language spoken in the Philippines.
surnames > macadenden
The surname Macadenden is of Scottish origin. It is believed to be derived from the Gaelic personal name Mac Adain, meaning "son of Adam." The name is thought to have originated in...
surnames > macadow
The surname Macadow is of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Old Gaelic name Mac Adaim, meaning "son of Adam." The name Adam itself comes from the Hebrew name Adām, which mea...
surnames > macafe
Macafe is a variant of the surname Macafee, which is of Scottish origin. It is believed to be a Gaelic surname derived from the personal name "Caoimhin," which means "handsome" or ...
surnames > macahis-abraham
The last name "Macahis Abraham" appears to have a diverse origin. The surname "Macahis" traces back to the Philippines and is of Filipino origin. On the other hand, "Abraham" is of...