Surname: Mailer

Origin: The surname Mailer is of Old French origin, derived from the Middle English word "malle," meaning "trunk" or "bag." It is believed to have been an occupational surname used for someone who made or sold trunks or bags.

History: The Mailer surname has a long history in British genealogy, dating back many centuries. The name likely first emerged in England during the medieval period when surnames were becoming more common. Early records show variations of the surname, such as "Malver," "Malier," and "Maleur."

Distribution: The Mailer surname is relatively rare in the United Kingdom, with the highest concentrations found in areas such as Scotland and parts of England. Over time, individuals bearing the surname may have migrated to different regions, contributing to the diverse distribution of the name.

Notable Individuals: One notable individual with the surname Mailer is Norman Mailer (1923–2007), an American novelist and journalist. Although he was not of British descent, Mailer's impact on 20th-century literature makes him an important figure associated with the surname.

Variations: Variations of the Mailer surname may include "Maller," "Meyler," and "Mailler." These variations may have developed over time due to changes in spelling conventions or regional dialects.

Coat of Arms: The Mailer surname does not have a widely recognized coat of arms associated with it. However, individuals interested in heraldry can explore specific family crests linked to variant spellings of the name.

Modern Day: In contemporary Britain, individuals with the surname Mailer can be found across various professions and walks of life. Genealogical research and DNA testing have enabled individuals to trace their ancestry and connect with others who share the Mailer surname.

References:

  • Reaney, P.H., & Wilson, R.M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
  • Hanks, P., & Hodges, F. (1988). A Dictionary of Surnames. Oxford University Press.

There are approximately 566 people named Mailer in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Mailer.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Gordon
  • Ian
  • James
  • Jim
  • John
  • Kenneth
  • Mark
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Diane
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Wendy

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