Last Name Maille

The surname "Maille" is of French origin. It comes from a word meaning "mail" or "armor," and was likely a nickname for someone who was skilled in making or working with armor. The first recorded usage of this surname can be traced back to the 13th century in France. Some notable people with the surname Maille include Jean Maille, a French architect from the Renaissance period, and Pierre Maille, a French botanist who was known for his work on tropical plants.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Maille

The meaning and origin of the last name Maille

The surname Maille is of French origin, primarily associated with the country's Normandy region. It derives from the Old French word "maille," which means "mesh" or "net." This name would have been occupational for someone who worked with nets, such as a fisherman or a bird trapper. Over time, the spelling of the surname has evolved to include various forms, including Maillard, Maillet, and Maillefer, among others. The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought many French names, including Maille, to England, where it remains as a relatively uncommon surname today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Maille

The surname Maille is primarily of French origin, with the highest concentration found in France, particularly in regions such as Brittany and Normandy. A significant number of people carrying this last name reside within these areas due to historical ties and regional traditions. Beyond France, Maille can also be found among French expatriates in various countries, especially those colonized by France, such as Quebec (Canada), Louisiana (United States), and parts of North Africa and the Caribbean. In some cases, the surname may have been anglicized to Maillet or Maley in English-speaking regions. Furthermore, small numbers of Maille descendants can be found scattered globally due to historical migration patterns, including to Europe, South America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Variants and spellings of the last name Maille

The surname Maille is of French origin and has several variations and spellings. Some common spelling variations include Maillet, Maillard, Malle, Malles, Malliet, Mallot, and Mallet. These variations may arise due to differences in pronunciation, regional dialects, or transcription errors over time. It's essential to note that while some variations might seem similar, they could potentially be derived from different origins or meanings. For instance, 'Malle' might originate from the Latin word 'malleus', meaning hammer, whereas 'Maillet' is a diminutive form of the Old French name "Mahel" or "Mahaut." Similarly, 'Malet' and 'Maillard' are French surnames; 'Malet' could be derived from the medieval occupational name 'maletier,' meaning a small cartmaker, while 'Maillard' refers to someone who sells maillechort (a type of thistle), or it may indicate someone who bakes or roasts meat.

Famous people with the last name Maille

Pierre Maille (1600-1674), a French apothecary and entrepreneur, is credited as one of the founders of the mustard industry. He established Maille, a company specializing in mustards and vinegars, which still exists today. Another notable figure with the surname Maille is Marcel Dionne (b. 1955), a Canadian professional ice hockey player. Known as "Le Magicien de la Glace" or "The Magician of Ice," he is one of the highest-scoring players in NHL history, holding several records for goals and assists by a left winger. In academia, French mathematician Laurent Schwartz (1915-2002) made significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in the areas of functional analysis and mathematical physics. He was awarded the Fields Medal in 1950 and the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1952. Finally, French actress Isabelle Huppert (b. 1953) is renowned for her versatility and strong performances in films such as "The Piano Teacher," "The Woman Next Door," and "Elle." She has received numerous awards, including two César Awards, a BAFTA Award, and four nominations for the Academy Award for Best Actress.

Genealogical research on the last name Maille

The surname Maille originates from France, specifically in the region of Burgundy. It is an occupational name derived from the Old French word "maille," which means "mesh" or "net." Originally, individuals bearing this surname were likely involved in the production and repair of nets, a vital craft during the Middle Ages for fishing, hunting, and trapping. Variants of the name include Maillet, Mallet, Maillefer, and others. One notable bearer was François de La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, Marquis de Maille, a French aristocrat who played an important role in the American Revolution as an aid to Benjamin Franklin. The distribution of the name is primarily found in France, with significant diaspora populations in Canada and the United States.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Maille"
• 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 : 15 June 2025

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