Last Name Mays

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mays

The meaning and origin of the last name Mays

The surname Mays is of English origin with various possible meanings. One interpretation suggests it is derived from the Middle English word "mays" meaning "kinsman" or "relative," indicating that it was originally used as a patronymic surname indicating descent from a certain male ancestor. Another possible explanation is its association with the month of May, which comes from the Old English word "maegd," meaning "a maiden." This could have been a nickname given to someone born or baptized in the month of May or who had a fair or youthful appearance. Additionally, Mays might have been a locational surname, derived from a place name such as Mays Green or May's Hill. As a relatively common surname, Mays can be found among English-speaking communities worldwide, spreading through migration and settlement. The name has likely evolved and diversified over time due to numerous factors such as regional dialects and variations in spelling.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mays

The surname Mays has a dispersed geographical distribution, with individuals bearing this last name found in various countries around the world. In the United States, Mays is most commonly found in the southern states, particularly in Texas, Alabama, and Mississippi. These regions likely have a higher concentration of Mays due to historical factors such as migration patterns and settlement. Additionally, the surname is also prevalent in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Scotland. The origins of the surname Mays can be traced to either the Old English or Gaelic languages, which further explains its presence in these regions. Furthermore, individuals with the last name Mays can also be found in smaller numbers in other countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, indicating a more global distribution of this surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mays

The last name Mays has several variations and spellings, reflecting the diverse ways it has been recorded throughout history. Some of these variations include Mayes, Mayse, Maze, Mase, and Maize. Each variant reflects changes in pronunciation, regional influences, or simply typographical errors in official records. These variations highlight the complexities of genealogy and the dynamic nature of surnames. The spelling of Mays with a "y" instead of an "e" could denote a family’s preference or a modernization of the surname. The divergent spellings may also have been influenced by immigration patterns, as families settled in different regions and adapted their names to suit the local vernacular. Despite the variations, these different spellings are often considered as different branches of the same family tree, forming a rich tapestry that embodies the evolution of surnames across time and geography.

Famous people with the last name Mays

One of the most notable figures with the last name Mays is Willie Mays, a legendary American baseball player. Often referred to as "The Say Hey Kid," Willie Mays is considered one of the greatest outfielders in the history of the sport. Born in 1931, Mays played for the New York Giants and later the San Francisco Giants, showcasing exceptional athleticism, hitting skills, and defensive prowess. He was a 24-time All-Star and won multiple Gold Glove Awards throughout his career. Mays' remarkable accomplishments include winning two National League MVP awards, hitting 660 home runs, and leading the Giants to a World Series championship in 1954. His charisma and style on the field made him an icon in both baseball and popular culture, securing his place as one of the greatest sports figures of all time.

Genealogical research on the last name Mays

The last name Mays has English and Scottish origins, and it is derived from the medieval personal name May or Maye, which was a nickname for someone born in the month of May. The surname Mays is a patronymic form, meaning it is derived from the given name of a male ancestor. Another possible origin of the name is the Old Norse word "maðr," meaning "man," indicating that the name could have also been a topographic surname referring to someone who lived near a meadow. The name Mays has various spelling variations, including May, Mayes, and Moyes. Early records of the Mays surname appear in the 13th and 14th centuries in both England and Scotland, with notable bearers of the name found in historical documents such as Robert de Mayes, who is recorded in the Court Rolls of the Manor of Wakefield in 1275, and John Mayes, who was a shipmaster recorded in London in 1600. Overall, traces of the Mays surname can be found in both England and Scotland, indicating a diverse genealogical history.