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May Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning

Where did the surname May come from? What does the surname May mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name May and family migration on YourRoots Map.


Similar surnames:

Matthew, Mae, Maike, Maio, Maj, Majewski, Makin, Maye, Mayes, Mayland, Mayson, Mei, Mey

Surname May Origin: What does the last name May mean?

The surname May has origins in both Germanic (Saxon) and Gaelic roots, with variations used in English-speaking countries and Germany. In Scotland, May is a sept of Clan Donald. The surname "May" is widespread in the United States, England, Scotland, Ireland, Canada, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand, and among Russians of German descent. It may also persist in areas of the Netherlands and France. YourRoots data indicates that the surname May first appeared in the United Kingdom in the early 14th century, and records show its presence in the United States and other countries, indicating a spread over the centuries.

By the 17th century, the May surname had significantly grown in records in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom in the early 18th century. The surname remains prominent worldwide, with a strong presence in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. YourRoots data showcases the global spread of the May surname, indicating its enduring legacy and widespread usage across various regions and cultures to this day.

May Last Name History: Where did the last name May come from?

Origin of May Surname: Where does the last name May originate from?

According to YourRoots data, the surname May first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 14th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “May” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.

History of the Last Name May: What does the May surname history look like in the early days?

The “May” surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 14th through the 15th century. YourRoots data also shows May family records in countries like the United States, indicating a spread over the centuries.

Global Spread: Where can we find the May surname today?

By the 17th century, the volume of records with the May surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had surpassed the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. The “May” surname remains prominent in the United States and other regions worldwide. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, and various others.


Explore May last name heritage and May surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

May surname origin, history, meaning based on YourRoots Map dataVIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME MAY

Famous People With May Surame?

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Brian May

    Brian May

    Sir Brian Harold May (born Jul 19, 1947) is an English musician, astrophysicist, and animal welfare activist. He is best known as the lead guitarist of the iconic rock band Queen. May's distinctive guitar work and songwriting helped Queen become one of the most successful acts in music history.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Elaine May

    Elaine May

    Elaine Iva May (née Berlin; born April 21, 1932) is a multi-talented American actress, comedian, writer, and director. She gained fame in the 1950s for her comedy routines with Mike Nichols. May broke barriers as a female director and writer, earning prestigious awards for her work in film, television, and theater.

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