Last Name May

Learn more about the origin of the last name May

The meaning and origin of the last name May

The surname May is derived from the English word " May," which originally referred to the month of May in the Gregorian calendar. The name has multiple possible origins. Firstly, it may have originated as a nickname for someone born or baptized in the month of May. Alternatively, it could have been a topographic name for someone who lived near hawthorn bushes, which were known as "may" in old English. Another possibility is that the name originated as a variation of the Old English personal name "Maeg," meaning "relative" or "kinsman." The surname May is widespread throughout the English-speaking world and has variant spellings, such as Mae and Maye. Notable individuals with this surname include Vera May, an Australian film actress, and Elaine May, an American screenwriter, film director, and comedian.

Geographical distribution of the last name May

The last name May is widely distributed across various regions of the world, although it is more prevalent in some countries than others. In English-speaking countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, the name May is quite common, with numerous individuals bearing this surname. Additionally, it is also found in other parts of Europe, including Germany, where it is spelled as "Mai." The name May can also be traced to Hispanic countries, particularly in Latin America, where it is often spelled as "Mey" or "Mejía." Furthermore, the last name May has a presence in Asia, particularly in countries like China and Vietnam, where it is also spelled differently in respective languages. Due to its extensive distribution, the name May has become a multicultural surname that reflects its global origins and diverse heritage.

Variants and spellings of the last name May

The last name May is a relatively straightforward name, but like many surnames, there are variations and spellings that have evolved over time. Some common variations of the last name May include Mayes, Mayer, Meier, and Meyers. Other less frequently seen variations include Mayson, Meijer, and Mae. These variations often arose due to changes in spelling conventions, migration, or regional dialects. For example, Mayer and Meier are Germanic variations of May, while Mayson and Mae are English and Scottish variations. Additionally, the last name May can be spelled differently depending on individual preferences or typographical errors. Some alternate spellings can include Mae, Mei, and Mai. These variations and spellings of the last name May highlight the diversity of surnames and reflect the dynamic nature of name evolution throughout history.

Famous people with the last name May

The surname "May" has been associated with several famous individuals across different fields. In the world of music, the name instantly brings to mind Brian May, the legendary guitarist of the iconic rock band Queen. Known for his distinctive playing style and unforgettable guitar solos, Brian May has earned a prominent place in rock 'n' roll history. In literature, Nancy Garden's novel "Annie on My Mind" propelled her to literary fame. The book, which explores a same-sex relationship, is considered a landmark in LGBTQ+ literature. Stepping into the realm of sports, Trevor May stands out as a well-known professional baseball pitcher, having played for multiple teams throughout his career. His pitching prowess and contributions to the sport have earned him widespread recognition. These individuals, among others, have undeniably made a lasting impact in their respective fields and helped elevate the surname "May" to recognition.

Genealogical research on the last name May

The last name May has a fascinating genealogical history, tracing back to medieval times. The name May is derived from the English word "may" which means "the fifth month of the year" or "the blossoming month." It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone born or baptized in the month of May. Another possibility is that it was bestowed upon an individual who had a connection with the may tree, which was associated with the festival of May Day. The surname May can be found across various countries, including England, Scotland, Wales, Germany, and France. Over time, the May family expanded and branched out into numerous lines and branches, resulting in different variations such as Mayes, Mayson, Mayer, and Mayhew. Researching the May family tree can provide valuable insights into the diverse origins and migrations of this surname throughout history.