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Last Name Meek

What is the origin of the last name Meek?

The surname "Meek" is of Old English and Scottish origins. It is derived from the Middle English word "mik," meaning small or little. This name was either a nickname for someone who was small in stature, or it could have been given to someone who exhibited modest or timid behavior. In Scotland, the name can also be traced back to the medieval barony of Meickle in Ayrshire and Angus. Notable individuals with this surname include American abolitionist Thomas H. Meek and British astronomer W. H. Meek.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Meek

The meaning and origin of the last name Meek

The surname Meek is of Old English origin, derived from the word "micel," which means large or great. Initially, it was likely a nickname for someone who was tall or robust. Over time, as generations passed, the name became hereditary and was adopted by various families in England, Scotland, and Ireland. The spelling of the name has evolved over centuries, with variants including Meeke, Meekes, and MacMeek. The name Meek is also found among German and Dutch immigrants to America, where it may have been anglicized from similar-sounding German or Dutch surnames. The name is relatively uncommon but is still found throughout English-speaking countries today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Meek

The surname Meek is predominantly distributed across several regions globally, with notable concentrations in certain countries. In the United States, the highest frequency of the Meek surname can be found primarily in states like Texas, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kentucky. It also has a significant presence in Scotland, where it originated, as well as other parts of the United Kingdom. The name can also be found in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and various African countries due to historical migration patterns. In the Caribbean, especially Jamaica, the Meek surname is relatively common due to the influence of Scottish immigration during the 18th and 19th centuries. These geographical distributions suggest a blend of ancestral roots spanning several continents and time periods.

Variants and spellings of the last name Meek

The surname Meek has several variations and spellings in English. These include Meak, Meech, Meich, and Mitch. Other forms may include MacMeek, McMeek, or O'Meek, depending on the region and specific family's historical origins. Additionally, there might be regional variations such as Meeke in some parts of England and Meekes in regions where a plural form is used for surnames. Similarly, some individuals may have altered their surname over time to suit personal preference or assimilation purposes, leading to forms like Myk, Meik, or Mik. Ultimately, it's essential to remember that the spelling of any name can evolve and change based on various factors throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Meek

Notable individuals with the surname Meek include Floyd Henry "Mike" Meek Jr., an American engineer who served as the Deputy Administrator of NASA during the Apollo program; and Jadakiss, born Jason Phillips, an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record executive from Yonkers, New York. In the world of academia, there is William Henry Meek Sr., a renowned mathematician who made significant contributions to the fields of statistics, probability theory, and mathematical psychology. Lastly, Thomas G. Meek, a prominent American archaeologist, was known for his work on the early history of Mexico and Central America. Each of these individuals have made significant impacts in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Meek

The surname Meek originates from Old English and Middle English roots, with variations including Mek, Meke, and Myk. Early records show that the name was predominantly found in northern England, particularly Yorkshire and Lancashire, though it also appeared in Scotland during the late Middle Ages. Some of the earliest known bearers of this name include John de Mek (1203) in Lincolnshire and Robert Mak (1296) in Yorkshire.

The Meek family migrated to America in significant numbers during the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly to Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. One notable early Meek ancestor was Thomas Meke (died 1643), an emigrant from Lancashire who settled in Ipswich, Massachusetts. The family later branched out into New Hampshire, Vermont, and other northeastern states.

Today, the Meek name can be found throughout the United States, with particularly high concentrations in Texas, Virginia, North Carolina, and Oklahoma. Famous individuals bearing this surname include American musician Boz Scaggs, author Zora Neale Hurston, and professional baseball player Michael Meek.

Last name distribution maps

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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 June 2025

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