What is the origin of the last name Myers?
Countries of origin for the last name Myers
The last name Myers is of English origin and is an occupational surname, derived from the Middle English word “mire” or “mireman,” meaning “one who lives by a bog or swamp.” It is believed to have initially been used to describe individuals who resided near or worked in marshy lands. The surname Myers is considered to be relatively common in the United States today, ranking as the 103rd most common surname in the country.
The migration of the Myers surname to the United States can be traced back to the 18th century when many individuals with the surname immigrated to America from England. It is thought that some of the earliest Myers immigrants settled in Pennsylvania, where their descendants spread to other parts of the country over time. Today, the highest concentration of individuals with the surname can be found in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, California, Florida, and Texas.
Like many surnames, the spelling of Myers has evolved over time. Variations of the surname include Meyers, Myer, and Meyer. These different spellings may stem from regional, linguistic, or personal preferences. It is worth noting that the German surname Meyer, which is similar in sound and has a related meaning (“tenant farmer”), is unrelated to the English surname Myers.
The study of surname origins and etymology can often be a complex endeavor due to the multitude of factors that contribute to the development and evolution of surnames over time. While the known facts about the Myers surname provide some insight into its meaning and historical usage, there are certainly aspects that remain unknown. The etymology of the surname highlights its connection to swampy or marshy areas, but the specific origins of individual Myers families and their ancestral occupations can vary. Researching and documenting the genealogy of particular Myers lineages may shed further light and offer a more comprehensive understanding of this surname’s history and significance.
Interesting facts about the last name Myers
- The surname Myers is of English origin and is derived from the word “mire,” meaning a bog or swamp.
- It is believed that the surname Myers was originally a topographic name, given to someone who lived near a swampy area.
- The surname Myers is most commonly found in England, particularly in the counties of Lancashire and Cheshire.
- In Jewish tradition, the surname Myers is a variation of the Hebrew name “Meir,” which means “illuminating” or “enlightened.”
- During the Middle Ages, the Myers family played a prominent role in the trade of textiles and wool, making them part of the emerging merchant class.
- The Myers surname can be traced back to the 13th century, with records showing individuals with variations of the name such as Meir, Mires, and Mire.
- Notable individuals with the surname Myers include Mike Myers, the Canadian actor known for his roles in “Austin Powers” and “Wayne’s World,” and Joyce Meyer, the American author and speaker.
- There are various alternative spellings of the Myers surname, including Meyers, Meyres, Miers, and Meares.
- The Myers surname has also spread to other countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa, through immigration and migration.
- In recent years, the Myers surname has gained popularity as a first name for boys, influenced by its association with famous individuals and characters.
Name Rank
#96
There are around 229895 people with the last name Myers in the US