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Last Name Maple

What is the origin of the last name Maple?

The last name "Maple" is of English origin. It is a topographical surname derived from the Middle English word "mapel" or "mapul," which translates to "maple tree." This surname likely originated from a person living near a prominent maple tree or an area with a significant number of maple trees. It was a common practice in medieval times to adopt surnames based on the physical features or characteristics of one's residence or occupation. Therefore, the surname "Maple" would have been given to someone living near or associated with maple trees.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Maple

The meaning and origin of the last name Maple

The surname Maple is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "mapul," meaning "maple tree." The name likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near or worked with maple trees. Alternatively, it may have been a locational name for someone who lived in a place named after maple trees. The maple tree itself holds symbolic significance in various cultures. In English folklore, maple leaves are associated with love and long life. In Native American mythology, the maple tree represents balance and harmony. The name Maple may have been given to individuals who displayed qualities or characteristics associated with the maple tree, such as strength, beauty, or stability. Over time, the surname Maple spread and became more common, particularly in England and other English-speaking countries. Today, individuals with the surname Maple can be found across the globe, reflecting the migration and dispersal of families throughout history.

Geographical distribution of the last name Maple

The last name Maple is primarily found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States. In the UK, it is more common in England, particularly in the southern regions. London and its surrounding counties have a relatively high concentration of individuals with the last name Maple. In the United States, the name is scattered across various states, with a larger concentration in areas settled by early English settlers, such as Virginia, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. Cities like Boston, Richmond, and Philadelphia have notable populations with the surname Maple. Additionally, due to migrations in recent decades, communities with the last name Maple can also be found in other English-speaking countries, including Canada and Australia. Overall, while the geographical distribution of the last name Maple is concentrated in English-speaking regions, it is relatively scattered due to historical migrations and settlement patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Maple

The last name Maple, typically spelled as 'M-a-p-l-e', may have several variations and alternative spellings. Some of the variations that exist for this surname include 'Mapel', 'Mapple', 'Maiple', 'Meple', and 'Maplees'. These variations may have originated from different regions, migration patterns, or simply personal preference. For example, the spelling 'Mapel' could have evolved from a potential phonetic pronunciation or regional accent. Similarly, 'Mapple' might reflect a distinct regional influence or even an unintentional typographical error. 'Maiple', 'Meple', and 'Maplees' could be alternative spellings resulting from individuals adopting a phonetic representation or Anglicization of the name. These variations highlight the fluid nature of surnames, which can change over time due to factors such as migration, cultural mixing, and historical events. Despite the various spellings, the last name Maple continues to represent a lineage that may hold rich historical and cultural significance for individuals and their families.

Famous people with the last name Maple

One of the famous people with the last name Maple is Lorne Michaels, a Canadian-American television producer and writer who is best known as the creator and executive producer of the long-running comedy sketch show, Saturday Night Live. Michaels has been the driving force behind the show's success since its inception in 1975, launching the careers of countless comedians and providing a platform for political and social satire. Another notable Maple is Emily Maple, a renowned American contemporary artist known for her intricate and emotionally charged illustrations. Maple's work often incorporates elements of fantasy and surrealism, creating captivating and thought-provoking pieces that have gained widespread recognition in the art world. Both Lorne Michaels and Emily Maple have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, cementing their place among the talented individuals who share the Maple last name.

Genealogical research on the last name Maple

The last name Maple has an interesting genealogical history. The origin of the surname is believed to be English, deriving from the Middle English word "mapel" or "mapul," meaning "maple tree." Early records show that individuals with the last name Maple were predominantly found in the counties of Lancashire and Derbyshire in England. Over time, some members of the Maple family migrated to other parts of the world, particularly North America. It is likely that some Maple descendants can be traced back to these early English settlers. Today, the surname Maple can be found in various countries, with the highest concentration in the United States, Canada, and England. Throughout generations, the name Maple has likely taken on different spellings or variations, such as Maples or Mapel. Genealogical research on the Maple family could potentially reveal connections to prominent figures, notable events, or uncover fascinating stories of migration and adaptation.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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