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Last Name Moye

What is the origin of the last name Moye?

The surname Moye is of English origin. It is derived from the medieval given name "Moore" or "Mowy," which itself is a variant of the name "Maurice." The name Maurice ultimately comes from the Latin name Mauricius, meaning "dark-skinned" or "Moorish." Over time, the name Moye evolved as a patronymic surname, indicating "son of Moore." The surname Moye is found in various English-speaking countries, especially in England and Scotland.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Moye

The meaning and origin of the last name Moye

The surname Moye is of Irish and Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Aodha," meaning "son of fire." The name Aodha is derived from the Celtic god Aodh, who was associated with the element of fire and represented as a young and radiant deity. It is believed that individuals with the surname Moye were descendants of a prominent figure in their community who was known for their fiery and passionate nature. The name is commonly found in Ireland, especially in the provinces of Leinster and Ulster, as well as in Scotland. Many individuals with the surname Moye migrated to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, during periods of economic hardship or for better opportunities. Over time, variations of the name could have emerged due to spelling changes or local dialect influences. Despite its variations, the surname Moye continues to symbolize a connection to Gaelic ancestry and carries the legacy of fire and passion.

Geographical distribution of the last name Moye

The last name "Moye" has a relatively concentrated geographical distribution, primarily in the United States. According to available data, the highest density of individuals with the surname "Moye" can be found in the southeastern region of the US, particularly in the states of Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. This could be attributed to historical migration patterns and settlement of families in these areas. Outside of the United States, the distribution of the last name "Moye" becomes less concentrated. There are scattered occurrences of individuals with this surname in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. These could be a result of individual immigration, international marriages, or other means of dispersal. However, the prevalence of the Moye surname in these countries is notably less compared to its concentration in the Southeastern states of the United States. Overall, while "Moye" is primarily associated with the Southeastern US, it is found in smaller numbers across other countries as well.

Variants and spellings of the last name Moye

The last name "Moye" has limited variations and spellings due to its relatively simple structure. However, some possible variations or spellings of the name Moye could include Moy, Moyes, Moi, Moyer, Moie, Moies, Moiye, Mhoey, and Mooye. While these variations are not extensive, they represent potential alternatives that could occur when the name is transcribed, anglicized, or misspelled. The name Moye originates from different cultural backgrounds, including French and Scottish. It is worth noting that the pronunciation of the surname may differ slightly depending on regional accents or dialects. Despite the limited variations, the name Moye holds unique individuality and carries the history and heritage of those who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Moye

One notable person with the last name Moye is Valeria Moye, a renowned Mexican artist. She gained international recognition for her breathtaking and imaginative sculptures. Valeria's art often explores themes of nature, spirituality, and the human condition. Her ability to bring life to inanimate objects is what sets her apart, capturing attention and admiration from art enthusiasts worldwide. Valeria has exhibited her work in prestigious galleries and museums, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards throughout her career. Another famous individual with the name Moye is Kelvin Moye, a highly respected professional basketball player. Hailing from the United States, Kelvin has made a significant impact in the sport. Known for his athleticism, agility, and exceptional shooting skills, he has played for various teams in the NBA, showcasing his immense talent and constantly contributing to the success of his squad. With numerous accolades under his belt, Kelvin Moye is hailed as one of the most exceptional basketball players of his generation.

Genealogical research on the last name Moye

The genealogical research on the last name Moye traces its origins back to medieval France, specifically the region of Brittany. The name derives from the Old French word "moie," meaning a fraction or half. It is believed to have originally been a nickname for a person who was part of a larger family or community. Over time, the name spread to other regions of France and evolved into various spellings such as Moyes, Moyer, and Moie. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Moye family migrated to England, Ireland, and the United States, primarily due to religious persecution, economic opportunities, or land ownership. Today, the Moye surname can be found in countries around the world, with significant concentrations in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Individuals with the last name Moye have diverse occupations, including farmers, laborers, merchants, and professionals. Genealogical research on the Moye family often involves exploring various records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, census records, and immigration records to unravel the family connections and ancestral lineages associated with this surname.

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 April 2025

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