MELVILLE
Melville
Overview
Melville is a prominent Scottish surname of Norman origin. The name is derived from the Old French elements "mal," meaning "bad" or "ill," and "ville," meaning "settlement" or "town." It is believed that the name originally referred to a Norman settler who came to Scotland during the medieval period. Over time, the Melville surname became associated with several notable individuals in Scottish history.
History
The Melville family has ancient roots in Scotland, and its members have played significant roles in the country's political and social spheres. One of the most well-known figures with the Melville surname is Sir James Melville of Halhill (1535–1617), a diplomat and memoirist who served as a diplomat during the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, and later in the court of James VI of Scotland.
The Melvilles were closely connected to the royal court and held various important positions in government and diplomacy. The family's influence extended to the realms of academia, with several notable scholars and writers bearing the Melville surname.
Notable Individuals
-
Sir James Melville of Halhill (1535–1617): A prominent diplomat and memoirist who served under Mary, Queen of Scots, and James VI of Scotland.
-
Andrew Melville (1545–1622): A renowned Scottish scholar and church leader who played a significant role in the Scottish Reformation.
-
Margot Melville (1912–2000): An influential British artist known for her innovative contributions to modern art.
Modern Popularity
The surname Melville continues to be relatively common in Scotland and is also found in other parts of the United Kingdom and the wider English-speaking world. Today, individuals bearing the Melville surname can be found across various professions and industries, upholding the legacy of their distinguished ancestors.
There are approximately 5,670 people named Melville in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,666th most common surname in Britain. Around 87 in a million people in Britain are named Melville.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- William
Female
- Alison
- Anne
- Caroline
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Jennifer
- Josephine
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Sarah
- Susan