Last Name Malık

The last name Malk is of Jewish origin, derived from the Hebrew word for king, "melech." It is a common Jewish surname and may have been adopted by individuals to signify pride in their ancestry or social status.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Malık

The meaning and origin of the last name Malık

The surname Malk is of German and Jewish origin, derived from the Yiddish word "malk," meaning “small” or “little.” It is believed to have originally been an ethnic nickname for someone of small stature, although it could also have been a nickname for a humble or meek person. The surname is commonly found among Jewish populations in Germany and Eastern Europe, where it likely originated. Over time, it spread to other countries as Jewish communities migrated. Today, the surname Malk is still relatively rare but can be found in various parts of the world due to the diaspora of Jewish populations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Malık

The last name Malk is primarily found in Israel, where it is believed to have originated from Hebrew or Yiddish roots. It is a relatively uncommon surname, and is most commonly found in areas with a significant Jewish population. Outside of Israel, the name Malk is found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Russia, and Germany, where Jewish immigrants have settled over the years. Due to the diaspora of Jewish communities throughout history, the surname Malk can also be found in various other countries around the world, albeit in smaller numbers. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Malk is widespread but concentrated in regions with a historical Jewish presence.

Variants and spellings of the last name Malık

The last name Malk has several variations and spellings, including Malc, Malck, Maelk, Mallk, Malq, Malak, and Mahlk. These variations can be a result of different transliterations from other languages, such as Hebrew, Russian, or German. Despite the different spellings, they all originate from the same surname and can be traced back to a common ancestral line. The variations in spelling can sometimes make it difficult to accurately trace family histories and genealogies, as individuals with the same surname may have different spellings. However, with the help of genealogical research and historical records, it is possible to uncover the true origins and meanings behind the name Malk and its various spellings.

Famous people with the last name Malık

One of the most famous people with the last name Malk is Evan Rachel Wood, a talented actress known for her roles in films like "Thirteen" and "The Wrestler," as well as the hit HBO series "Westworld." Another well-known figure with the surname Malk is Benh Zeitlin, an acclaimed filmmaker and director of the indie hit "Beasts of the Southern Wild." Additionally, Noa Tishby is a prominent actress, producer, and writer who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, such as "The Island" and "Big Love." These individuals have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and have garnered international recognition for their talents and achievements.

Genealogical research on the last name Malık

The surname Malk is of Jewish and Russian origin, derived from the Yiddish word "malach," meaning angel. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone who was considered to be angelic or virtuous. Genealogical research on the last name Malk reveals a significant presence in Eastern Europe, particularly in regions such as Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. Many individuals with the surname Malk can trace their ancestry back to Jewish communities in these areas. The name may also have spread to other parts of the world through migration and the diaspora of Jewish populations. Today, individuals with the last name Malk can be found in various countries, with diverse backgrounds and histories that contribute to the rich tapestry of the Malk family tree.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "malık"
• 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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