Last Name Macy

The last name "Macy" is said to have originated from England. It is derived from the Germanic personal name "Mathew" or "Macey," meaning "gift of God." Over time, the spelling of the name evolved, and the variant "Macy" became more common. The Macy surname is primarily found in Ireland, England, and the United States, where it was brought by English immigrants. Notably, the department store chain "Macy's" was founded by Rowland Hussey Macy, who was of English descent.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Macy

The meaning and origin of the last name Macy

The surname Macy is of English origin and is derived from the Old French personal name "Masci" or "Mace", which itself originated from the Latin name "Maccius". The name "Macy" was first recorded in England during the 13th century. It is believed to have been introduced by the Normans after the 1066 Norman Conquest. The meaning of the surname is not entirely clear, but it is thought to have originated as a nickname for someone who was brave or fierce. The name may have also been associated with a mace-bearing official or a person who worked with maces, which were heavy clubs used as weapons during medieval times. Over the centuries, the surname Macy has undergone various spellings and changes, including Massy, Massie, Macey, and others. Today, it is a relatively uncommon surname, but still can be found predominantly in England and the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Macy

The last name Macy appears to have a relatively widespread geographical distribution, predominantly found in English-speaking countries. In the United States, the name is most commonly found in the states of New York, Texas, California, and Illinois. It is also prevalent in the United Kingdom, with a concentration in England, particularly in the counties of Norfolk, London, and Yorkshire. Additionally, the name is present in Canada, primarily in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. While the exact origins of the name may vary, it is believed to have English and Scottish roots. Beyond these countries, the name Macy can also be found, albeit in smaller numbers, in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The geographical distribution of the last name Macy reflects the historical patterns of migration and settlement of English-speaking populations across these regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Macy

The last name "Macy" has several variations and spellings. Some common variations include "Maci," "Macie," "Massy," and "Massey." These variations may have originated from different regions or through changes made over time. Additionally, there are alternative spellings such as "Macey," "Maicy," and "Mazey." These variations could be a result of phonetic interpretation, regional accents, or deliberate changes made by individuals or family branches. The "Macy" surname, originally derived from the Norman French name "Massy," has its roots in medieval England. Over the years, as families migrated and settled in different parts of the world, these variations and spellings emerged. Despite the differences, however, individuals with these various spellings or variations of the "Macy" last name often share a common ancestry and heritage.

Famous people with the last name Macy

William H. Macy, an American actor and director, is perhaps the most well-known individual with the last name Macy. Born in 1950, Macy has built a remarkable career in both film and television, earning numerous accolades along the way. He has received Academy Award nominations for his roles in movies like "Fargo" and "The Cooler." Macy has also made a significant impact on television, captivating audiences with his portrayal of Frank Gallagher in the critically acclaimed series "Shameless." Furthermore, he has directed a number of films, including "Rudderless" and "Krystal." Known for his versatile performances, exceptional talent, and commitment to his craft, Macy has established himself as one of the finest actors of his generation. With his distinctive presence and impressive body of work spanning several decades, William H. Macy remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Macy

The surname Macy derives from the medieval English name "Mascy" or "Massy," which originated in Normandy, France. It is believed that the first individuals with the Macy last name arrived in England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Over time, the name evolved into various spellings, such as Macey, Massey, or Macy. The Macy family played a significant role in England, and later in America, during the 17th and 18th centuries. The most notable Macy in American history is Thomas Macy, who migrated with his family to Nantucket Island in Massachusetts in 1659. He settled in an area known as Sherburne, and his descendants continued to reside in the region for generations to come. Today, the Macy name has spread across the United States, with notable individuals in various fields. Genealogical research on the Macy family can provide valuable insights into their lineage, connections, and contributions throughout history, helping individuals to understand their roots and heritage.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Macy"
• 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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