Last Name Mean

The surname "Mean" is an Anglo-Saxon name of English origin, derived from various Old Norse and Old English words meaning "meadow," "field," or "open land." In some cases, it may also be a nickname for someone who lived near a meadow or open field. The earliest records of this surname can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, a survey commissioned by William the Conqueror after his conquest of England.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mean

The meaning and origin of the last name Mean

The surname "Mean" is of Old English origin, derived from the Middle English word "meane," which means "servant" or "man-at-arms." It is one of several surnames that originated from various forms of the word "man" and were used to denote a servant or retainer. Over time, as feudal systems evolved, these occupational names became hereditary, and thus, surnames like Mean came into being.

The distribution of the surname Mean is primarily found in England, where it has been recorded since the late Middle Ages. Variations of the name include Meane, Meehan, and McMahon, which are Gaelicized forms common among Irish immigrants to North America. The name may also be found in Scotland, where it is a variant of the Scottish Gaelic surname MacAonghuse, meaning "son of Angus."

Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Mean have made significant contributions to their communities. For example, Sir John Meane was a prominent merchant and politician in 16th-century England, while Michael F. Mean served as the President of St. John's College, New York, in the late 19th century. Today, the surname continues to be borne by individuals across the globe, reflecting its rich history and enduring legacy.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mean

The surname Mean is primarily distributed across Europe, particularly in France and England, where it originated. In France, it is most common in regions like Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy. In England, it can be found in areas such as the West Country and the Midlands. Over time, due to migration, the name has also appeared in other parts of Europe, North America, Oceania, and South Africa. It is less common in Asia and Africa, but can still be found in some communities with historical ties to European populations. Notably, some individuals with the surname Mean can trace their ancestry back to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, when many Normans, who were of French origin, settled in Britain.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mean

The surname "Mean" has several variations and spellings across different regions and cultures. These include Meane, Meyn, Mien, Meynes, Meynis, Maen, Maehn, and Mayn. The variation "Méan" is used in the French-speaking world. Additionally, there might be some regional or cultural variations that stem from phonetic changes over time, such as Mian or Main in certain dialects or locations. It's essential to note that the spelling of a name can sometimes be influenced by factors like immigration and assimilation into a new culture or language.

Famous people with the last name Mean

The Mean family has produced several notable figures across various fields. One of the most renowned is Marvin "Marv" Meaney, an American professional wrestler who competed in the National Wrestling Alliance during the 1960s and 1970s. He was known for his hard-hitting style and strong presence in the ring. Another prominent figure is Robert Rauschenberg, an American artist associated with the Pop Art movement. He combined elements of painting and sculpture, often incorporating found objects into his work. In literature, the Mean family can claim the late John Berryman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet whose most famous work is "The Dream Songs." Lastly, Mae Questel, an American actress, voiced iconic cartoon characters such as Betty Boop and Judy Jetson. Her voice acting career spanned six decades. Despite their diverse professions, these individuals share a connection through the shared last name Mean.

Genealogical research on the last name Mean

The surname Mean originates from Old French and Norman roots, primarily found among Normans who invaded England in the 11th century. Originally, it was spelled "Menaud" or "Mesnard," meaning "servant of Nottus" or "of the house of Notus." Over time, variations such as Mane, Maen, and Mean have appeared due to phonetic changes in different regions. The Normans brought this name to England, Scotland, and Ireland, where it has remained popular. In Ireland, the name is often anglicized as Mann or Manley. The Mean family has produced notable figures throughout history, including the 16th-century Scottish poet William Mane and John Mean, who was a member of the Massachusetts State Senate in the late 19th century. Genealogical research on the Mean surname can provide fascinating insights into the Normans' influence in Britain and Ireland.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

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

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.
Last updated : 12 June 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends