MARTEL
Martel
Martel is a surname of Old French origin, derived from the personal name Martel, meaning "hammer" or "warlike". The name has a rich history, particularly in England and France.
History
The Martel surname can be traced back to early medieval times, with documented instances of its usage in historic records in the 12th and 13th centuries in England and France. It is believed that the name was bestowed upon individuals who displayed qualities of strength, courage, or were skilled in battle. The Martel family has played a significant role in various regions, with notable members achieving distinction in military, political, and cultural spheres.
Distribution
The surname Martel is most commonly found in France, particularly in regions such as Aquitaine, Normandy, and Brittany. Over time, the name has spread to other parts of Europe and the world as a result of migration and settlement patterns.
Notable Individuals
- Charles Martel (c. 688–741) - Known as the "Hammer" for his military prowess, he was a Frankish statesman and military leader who played a key role in the Battle of Tours, halting the advance of the Umayyad Caliphate into Europe.
- Elena Martel (b. 1980) - British actress known for her roles in theatre and television productions.
- Louis Martel (1905–1971) - French artist famed for his surrealist paintings and sculptures.
The Martel surname continues to thrive, with descendants scattered across the globe. It remains a symbol of strength, fortitude, and heritage for many families bearing the name.
There are approximately 231 people named Martel in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Martel.
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Charles
- Clinton
- David
- Gareth
- Gavin
- George
- John
- Mark
- Neil
- Nicholas
- Simon
- Timothy
- William
Female
- Caroline
- Christina
- Gwendoline
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Joanne
- Karen
- Katherine
- Lauren
- Lisa
- Marie
- Marjorie
- Michaela
- Rebecca
Similar and related surnames
- Myrtle
- Martell
- Marta
- Maertell
- Martall
- Marte
- Martelo
- Martelet
- Martelino
- Martella
- Martelle
- Martelli
- Martello
- Martells
- Martelly
- Martial
- Martiello
- Martil
- Martill
- Martle
- Martola
- Marttil
- Martwell
- Mertel
- Mirtle
- Mortal
- Mortali
- Mortall
- Mortel
- Mortell
- Murtell
- Murtle
- Mardel
- Marel
- Martalo
- Martelette
- Martelletti
- Martellini
- Martellotta
- Marter
- Martes
- Martlam
- Martlett
- Martlew
- Martley
- Marttila
- Martul
- Mardell
- Mardle
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.