Last Name Meyers

The origin of the last name "Meyers" can be traced back to Germany and the Netherlands. It is a variant of the surname "Mayer", derived from the Hebrew given name "Meir" or "Meirah," meaning "illuminating" or "enlightening". As with many surnames, "Meyers" may have originated as a patronymic surname, indicating descent from a male ancestor named Meyer or Mayer. Over time, the name has spread to various countries through migration and has undergone further phonetic changes and spelling variations.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Meyers

The meaning and origin of the last name Meyers

The surname Meyers is of German origin and derives from the personal name Meier. The name Meier is derived from the Middle Low German word "meier," meaning "administrator" or "steward." As an occupational surname, Meyers originally indicated a person who held the position of a steward or bailiff, responsible for managing and overseeing the affairs of an estate or manor. The name can also be traced back to the Latin term "major domus," meaning "chief of the household." Over time, the spelling variations of the surname evolved into different forms, including Mayer, Meyer, Meyers, and Meier. Many individuals with the surname Meyers have emigrated from Germany to various parts of the world, thus spreading the name across different countries and regions. Today, Meyers is a fairly common surname, predominantly found in German-speaking countries and their diaspora communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Meyers

The last name Meyers has a diverse geographical distribution, with prominent concentrations across multiple regions around the world. In the United States, the name is most commonly found in states such as New York, California, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. These areas have historically attracted large populations of immigrants, contributing to the proliferation of the Meyers surname. Similarly, in Canada, Meyers is prevalent in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec. The name also has a notable presence in parts of Europe, particularly Germany and the Netherlands, possibly due to its Germanic origins. Additionally, Meyers can be found in Australia, South Africa, and other countries where immigration and colonization resulted in a diverse mix of surnames. Due to the widespread dispersion of the Meyers name, its geographical distribution reflects the historical movements of various populations and the subsequent establishment of communities in different parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Meyers

The last name "Meyers" has a few variations and spellings that have been used over time. One common variation is "Myers," which drops the second "e" but maintains the same pronunciation. Another variation is "Meyer," which removes the "s" at the end. This spelling is often associated with German or Jewish heritage. Additionally, there are less common spellings such as "Meijer" or "Maier," which are influenced by different European language pronunciations. These variations may indicate regional or historical differences in spelling conventions. The name "Meyers" itself is derived from the patronymic form of "Meyer," indicating someone's connection or descent from a person named Meyer. It is essential to note that the spelling variations of surnames can occur due to immigration, misspelling or simplification of the name over time, regional dialects, and personal preferences.

Famous people with the last name Meyers

One famous figure with the last name Meyers is Seth Meyers, an American comedian, writer, and television host. Seth gained popularity as a cast member on the sketch comedy show "Saturday Night Live" before becoming the host of "Late Night with Seth Meyers" in 2014. With his witty humor and superb interviewing skills, Seth has made a significant impact on the late-night talk show landscape. Another prominent individual with the last name Meyers is Mike Myers, a Canadian actor, comedian, and filmmaker. He is best known for his iconic comedic characters, such as Wayne Campbell in "Wayne's World" and Austin Powers in the eponymous film series. Myers has brought laughter to audiences worldwide with his unique style and comedic timing. Both Seth Meyers and Mike Myers have left a lasting impression in the entertainment industry, showcasing their talents and making audiences laugh through their respective contributions.

Genealogical research on the last name Meyers

The surname Meyers has a rich genealogical history with origins in Germany. The name is rooted in the occupational term "Meier," which referred to a steward or administrator of an estate or manor. In medieval times, a Meier was responsible for overseeing the functioning of the land and collecting rent on behalf of the landowner. Over time, variations of the name emerged, including Meyer, Meyr, Meir, and others. The Meyers family spread across different regions of Germany and eventually migrated to other parts of the world, notably the United States, Canada, and Australia. Upon immigration, the spelling of the surname sometimes underwent further changes, adapting to the phonetic habits of the new country. Consequently, there are families with variations such as Myers, Mayer, and Meijer. Today, descendants of the Meyers family can be found in various professions and walks of life, contributing their talents to different societies. Genealogical research on the Meyers surname reveals a legacy that spans centuries, depicting the strength and resilience of the family throughout their diverse and widespread branches.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Meyers"
• 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 : 11 April 2025

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