Last Name Maupin

Learn more about the origin of the last name Maupin

The meaning and origin of the last name Maupin

The surname Maupin originates from France, specifically from the regions Normandy and Picardy. It is an occupational name derived from the Old French 'mauvise', which means 'young hawk' or 'falcon', and 'pin', meaning 'pine tree'. Thus, the original bearers of this surname were falconers who trained their birds to hunt in pine forests. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different countries, variations in the spelling of Maupin emerged. These include Moupin, Morpin, and Morepin, among others. Today, it is most prevalent in France, England, and the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Maupin

The surname Maupin is most prevalent in France, particularly in the northern regions such as Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy. This can be attributed to its origins, which are believed to have originated from these areas during the Middle Ages. The name has also been found in significant numbers in Quebec, Canada, due to French colonization and subsequent immigration waves. In addition, Maupin is present albeit less frequently, in other parts of Europe, including England, Belgium, and Switzerland. In the United States, descendants of French immigrants have distributed the surname across several states, with Louisiana, Florida, Texas, and California having a relatively higher concentration. The name's global distribution reflects historical migration patterns from France, primarily to North America and Quebec.

Variants and spellings of the last name Maupin

The surname Maupin has several spelling variations due to factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors, and individual preference over time. Some of these variations include: Maupin, Mauppin, Moupin, Maupyn, Mowpin, Moupin, Maypin, and Moupien. These spellings often reflect minor differences in pronunciation or spelling conventions during different historical periods. The origins of the name are believed to be French, with possible roots in either Normandy or Picardy regions, where it may have been a locational name for someone from a place called Maupin or a nickname for someone with a small, pudgy face or body, derived from the Old French word 'mauvais' meaning 'little' and 'pain' meaning 'bread'. As with many surnames, the specific origins of each individual bearing the name may vary based on their particular family history.

Famous people with the last name Maupin

Armistead Maupin is one of the most renowned individuals with the surname Maupin. Born in 1944, he is an American novelist and scriptwriter best known for his serial novel "Tales of the City," which explores themes of love, friendship, and the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco during the late 20th century. The series was later adapted into a television miniseries. Another prominent figure with the same surname is Darnell Maupin, an American former professional basketball player. He played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1984 to 1997 for teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks and Golden State Warriors. His career achievements include being named NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 1986, an All-Star selection three times, and a seven-time All-NBA Team member.

Genealogical research on the last name Maupin

The surname Maupin originates from Normandy, France, and is a locational name derived from various places named Maupin or Maubepin, which are found in Calvados, Orne, and Manche regions. The earliest records of the family date back to the 13th century, with Richard Mappin appearing in documents related to the manor of Caucrières, Orne, in 1297. Over time, variations such as Maupin, Maubin, Maupon, and Maubepin emerged. The Maupins played significant roles in French history; Bertrand de Maupin was a companion-at-arms to Henry V of England during the Hundred Years War, while Michel Maupin was an architect who worked on Louis XIV's Palace of Versailles. The Maupin family later immigrated to North America, where they settled primarily in Virginia, Louisiana, and other Southern states, making contributions to American society as planters, politicians, and soldiers. Notable descendants include American author and lawyer Harriet Beecher Stowe, who was born into the Stowe-Maupin family.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Maupin"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

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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 June 2025