Last Name Myrtle

The surname Myrtle is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "myrtel," which means "myrtle tree." It was likely used as a topographic or habitational name for someone who lived near a myrtle tree or grove.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Myrtle

The meaning and origin of the last name Myrtle

The surname Myrtle is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "myrtel," which refers to the evergreen shrub with white flowers known as myrtle. The surname may have been originally used as a topographic name for someone who lived near a place where myrtle trees grew or as a nickname for someone with a connection to the plant. Alternatively, it could have been a habitational name for someone from a place named with this word. The use of plant-based surnames was common in medieval England, as they often reflected characteristics or features of the bearer's surroundings. Today, the surname Myrtle is relatively rare and individuals with this name may have ancestors who lived in areas where myrtle trees were abundant.

Geographical distribution of the last name Myrtle

The last name Myrtle is not commonly found in the United States, with the highest concentration of individuals bearing this surname residing in the state of South Carolina. Other smaller pockets of Myrtle families can also be found in various southern states such as Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina. Additionally, there are some individuals with the last name Myrtle living in the Midwest region of the United States, particularly in states like Ohio and Illinois. Overall, the geographic distribution of the last name Myrtle tends to be more localized in the southern and midwestern regions of the country, with a sparse presence in other parts of the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Myrtle

Some variations and spellings of the last name Myrtle include Mirtle, Murtle, Murttle, Myrtal, Myrtel, and Myrtll. The surname Myrtle may also be spelled in different ways depending on regional dialects and historical records. It is important to note that variations in spelling can occur due to factors such as phonetic differences, transcription errors, and changes over time. Researchers and genealogists should consider these variations when conducting family history research on individuals with the surname Myrtle.

Famous people with the last name Myrtle

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Myrtle is Moaning Myrtle, a ghost character from the Harry Potter series created by J.K. Rowling. Moaning Myrtle is known for haunting the girls' bathroom at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Another well-known figure with the last name Myrtle is Myrtle Sarrosa, a Filipino actress, singer, and cosplayer who gained popularity after winning the reality TV show Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition 4. Myrtle Augee, a British athlete who competed in shot put and discus throw events during the 1920s and 1930s, is also a notable individual with the surname Myrtle. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on popular culture.

Genealogical research on the last name Myrtle

The surname Myrtle is of English origin, derived from the name of the evergreen shrub "myrtle." It is believed to have been used as a nickname for someone who lived near or worked with myrtle plants. The first recorded instance of the Myrtle surname dates back to the early 13th century in Yorkshire, England. Over time, the surname has spread to various English-speaking countries, with concentrations found in the United States, Australia, and Canada. Variations of the surname include Myrtles, Myrtel, and Mertel. Genealogical research on the Myrtle surname may uncover connections to prominent families in England as well as traces of immigration patterns and settlement in different regions throughout history.

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