Meyer

Meyer is a surname of English, German, or possibly Jewish origin. The name is believed to have derived from the Middle High German word "meier", meaning administrator or steward.

Origin:

The name is thought to have originated in Germany and later spread to other parts of Europe, including England. Many individuals with the surname Meyer can be traced back to their German roots, particularly in regions such as Bavaria and Prussia.

Distribution:

The surname Meyer is relatively common in both Germany and the United Kingdom. In Britain, it can be found in various regions, with concentrations in urban areas such as London and Manchester.

Notable Individuals:

  • Rudolf Meyer: An influential German mathematician known for his work in the field of number theory.
  • Frederick Meyer: A British entrepreneur who founded a successful chain of department stores in the late 19th century.
  • Sophie Meyer: A prominent Jewish novelist and playwright who gained recognition for her literary works.

In Popular Culture:

The surname Meyer has been featured in various works of literature, film, and television. One notable example is the character Meyer Wolfsheim in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel "The Great Gatsby", a portrayal of a mysterious and wealthy underworld figure.

Variants:

Over time, the surname Meyer has undergone various alterations and adaptations, leading to the emergence of different variants. Some of these variants include "Meier", "Mayers", and "Maier".

In conclusion, the surname Meyer carries a rich history that spans across countries and cultures. From its German roots to its presence in Britain, individuals bearing this surname have made significant contributions in various fields, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

There are approximately 3,749 people named Meyer in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,481st most common surname in Britain. Around 58 in a million people in Britain are named Meyer.

Region of origin: Europe

Country of origin: Germany

Language of origin: German

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Caroline
  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Jacqueline
  • Jennifer
  • Jessica
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sandra
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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