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What is the origin of the last name Map?

The last name "Map" is of English origin and is a variation of the surname "Mapp." It is believed to be derived from the Middle English word "mappe," which means a piece of cloth or heavy woolen fabric used for bedding. This suggests that the surname may have originally been used to describe someone who either manufactured or sold such fabric. Another possible origin is that it could be a topographic surname for someone who lived by a landmark, such as a distinctive hill or mound.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Map

The surname Map is of English and Scottish origin, derived from the medieval personal name "Matte" or "Matho," which was a short form of the Greek name "Matthew." The name "Matthew" itself comes from the Hebrew name "Mattityahu," meaning "gift of God." The surname Map likely evolved as a nickname or patronymic surname for someone named Matthew or a similar variation of the name. Variations of the surname Map include Mapp, Mapes, and Maps. The surname Map can be found throughout England and Scotland, with concentrations in regions where the name Matthew was popular. Today, individuals with the surname Map can be found in various parts of the world, each carrying on the legacy of their ancestral roots.

Geographical distribution of the last name Map

The last name Map is most commonly found in India, particularly in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is also present in significant numbers in Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates. The distribution of the Map surname suggests a predominantly South Asian origin, with a concentration in regions where the Malayalam and Tamil languages are spoken. The diaspora of individuals with the last name Map can also be traced to countries with historical ties to India, such as those in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Map surname reflects the migration patterns and cultural exchange between South Asia and other parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Map

The last name Map has several variations and spellings across different regions and cultures. Some common variations include Mapp, Maap, Maape, Mappe, and Maup. In certain regions with different phonetic rules, the name might be spelled as Mab, Mape, or Maap. These variations could be a result of transliterations from other languages or regional accents pronouncing the name differently. Additionally, historical records and immigration documents may further contribute to the diverse spellings of the surname Map. Despite the variations in spelling, all these forms ultimately trace back to the same origin and family lineage. Whether it is spelled as Map, Mapp, or Maape, it still represents a unique and culturally rich surname with a history worth exploring.

Famous people with the last name Map

One famous person with the last name Map is Tara Mapes, an American multimedia artist known for her intricate and colorful paper-cutting designs. She has gained recognition for her unique approach to creating art using traditional methods blended with a contemporary aesthetic. Another notable individual is Brian Mapes, an atmospheric scientist and professor at the University of Miami who specializes in weather patterns and climate modeling. He has contributed valuable research to the field of meteorology, particularly in the study of hurricanes and tropical storms. These individuals bearing the surname Map have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on the artistic and scientific communities.

Genealogical research on the last name Map

The last name Map is of English origin and is an occupational surname derived from the Middle English word "mappe," meaning a square piece of cloth or a tablecloth. The name likely indicated someone who made or sold maps or worked with fabrics. The first recorded instance of the surname Map dates back to the 13th century in Oxfordshire, England. Over the centuries, the Map family spread throughout England, particularly in the counties of Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Devon. Immigration patterns also brought the surname to other English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Today, individuals with the last name Map can be found in various professions and industries, but many still retain ties to their English heritage and ancestral roots.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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.

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