MOFFIT
Moffit
Origin and Meaning
Moffit is a surname of Scottish and Northern Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic surname "Mac Mhathain," which means "son of Mathan." The name Mathan itself is believed to originate from the Old Norse name "Mathun," meaning "bear."
History and Distribution
The Moffit surname has a long history, with records dating back to medieval times in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The name has been found in various historical documents, including land records, church registers, and census data. Moffit is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in the regions of Lanarkshire and Ayrshire, as well as in Northern Ireland.
Famous People
Several notable individuals have borne the surname Moffit, including athletes, scholars, and musicians. One famous example is the American swimmer, Michael Phelps, who is married to Nicole Johnson, whose maiden name is Moffit. In the world of literature, the Scottish author, Denise Mina, has also brought recognition to the Moffit name.
Variants and Related Surnames
Variants of the Moffit surname include Moffitt, Moffat, and MacMathain. Related surnames with similar origins include Mathieson, Matheson, and Mathewson.
Coat of Arms
The Moffit family's coat of arms typically features elements such as a shield with symbols like bears, stars, or crosses. These emblems may vary depending on the specific branch of the family. The coat of arms serves as a traditional heraldic symbol of the Moffit lineage.
Legacy
The Moffit surname carries with it a rich heritage and a sense of kinship to the Scottish and Northern Irish cultures. Families bearing this surname often take pride in their ancestry and history, maintaining traditions and connections that have passed down through generations. Today, the Moffit name continues to be honoured and carried on by descendants around the world.
There are approximately 46 people named Moffit in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Moffit.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
Female