Maud

Origin and Meaning: Maud is a surname of Old Germanic origin, derived from the personal name "Mawd" which itself is a variation of the name Matilda. The name Matilda originates from the Old Germanic name "Mahthildis,” meaning "strength in battle."

Historical Significance: The surname Maud has ancient roots in British history, with records of its use dating back to the 13th century. It is associated with noble families and prominent figures throughout the centuries, including Queen Matilda of England (1102–1167), also known as Empress Matilda, who was the daughter of King Henry I of England and the wife of Holy Roman Emperor Henry V.

Distribution and Popularity: The surname Maud is relatively rare and is most commonly found in parts of England and Scotland. It is more prevalent in areas with historical connections to noble families or regions where the name has been passed down through generations.

Variants and Derivatives: Variants of the surname Maud include Maude, Mawd, and Mawde. Over time, the name has undergone various linguistic changes, leading to the development of different spelling variations.

Famous Individuals: Notable individuals with the surname Maud include:

  1. Cyril Dean Maud (1902–1974) – A British philosopher and writer known for his contributions to political theory.
  2. Caroline Maud (b. 1980) – A British artist and illustrator renowned for her distinctive style and creative vision.

Legacy and Modern Usage: While the surname Maud may not be as common as some other British surnames, it carries a rich historical legacy and remains an important part of the nation's genealogical tapestry. Today, individuals bearing the surname Maud can trace their ancestry to a diverse range of historical figures and lineages, making it a unique and cherished name within British heritage.

There are approximately 560 people named Maud in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Maud.

Surname type: From given name or forename

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

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Glenn
  • Graham
  • John
  • Michael
  • Nicholas
  • Nigel
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Stephen

Female

  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Karen
  • Linda
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Pauline
  • Rebecca
  • Sally
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Tee

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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