Melville Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Melville come from? What does the surname Melville mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Melville and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Melville Origin: What does the last name Melville mean?
Melville is a surname with origins in both Scotland and Ireland. In Scotland, it is a habitational name derived from Norman places called Malleville in Normandy. The name Malleville comes from Latin roots meaning "bad country house." In Ireland, Melville is an Anglicisation of the Gaelic Ó Maoilmhichíl, which translates to "descendant of Maoilmhichil," with the Gaelic personal name meaning "devotee of (Saint) Michael." The surname is sometimes seen without the terminal "e" as Melvill. YourRoots data indicates that the Melville surname first appeared in Scotland around the early 12th century and has since spread globally, with significant presence in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The Melville surname has a rich history, closely associated with Scotland from the 12th to the 18th centuries. By the 20th century, the surname had expanded significantly, with records showing a notable presence in the United States. Today, Melville remains prominent in various countries worldwide, including Scotland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. YourRoots data further reveals the surname's presence in countries like South Africa, India, and the United Kingdom, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution across diverse regions and cultures.
Melville Last Name History: Where did the last name Melville come from?
Origin of Melville Surname: Where does the last name Melville originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Melville first appeared in records from Scotland (United Kingdom) around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Melville spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Melville: What does the Melville surname history look like in the early days?
The Melville surname remained closely associated with Scotland (United Kingdom) from the 12th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Melville family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Melville surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Melville surname grew significantly in the United States. The Melville surname remains prominent in countries like Scotland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It appears in many countries, including South Africa, India, and the United Kingdom.
Explore Melville last name heritage and Melville surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Melville Surame?
Herman Melville
Herman Melville (August 1, 1819 – September 28, 1891) was an American novelist, poet, and short story writer known for his iconic work, Moby-Dick. He was a key figure in the American Renaissance period, with other notable works including Typee and Billy Budd, Sailor. Melville's writing explored themes of adventure, morality, and the human experience. Despite facing initial criticism, his work gained recognition posthumously, solidifying his place as one of the great American authors. Melville's life was marked by travels at sea, financial struggles, and a shift to poetry later in his career. His legacy continues to influence literature and culture today.
Harden Sidney Melville
Harden Sidney Melville (1824 – June 4, 1894) was an English painter, illustrator, and draughtsman known for his contributions to the arts and exploration. He received recognition for his paintings at the Royal Academy and conducted a significant hydrographic survey of Australia's north-east coast. Melville illustrated various works, including "Curiosities of Savage Life" and accounts of Australian expeditions. Son of engraver Henry William Melville and Martha Harden, he left a lasting impact on both the artistic and maritime worlds. Melville's legacy lives on through his detailed illustrations and important survey work in the 19th century.
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