130 Last Names or Surnames That Start With ‘M’

Surnames are usually derived from a place, a nickname, an occupation or a relationship with one’s father or mother. Investigating the origin of one’s last name can be interesting for those who want to trace their family history and roots. Most often, surnames get corrupted over a period of time, and their original meanings change. The letter M is associated with a lot of last names. From popular last names that have lasted for generations to uncommon and unique ones, last names that start with “M” have many meanings, including places, jobs, and personal characteristics. Pick one from this comprehensive list of last names, starting with the letter M, and let it define your and your family’s identities. Remember that the name and surname will be your child’s identity; therefore, pick the name carefully.

Last Names or Surnames That Start With ‘M’ in Different Origins

Last names that start with the “M” can be found across various cultures and regions, each with its unique origin and meaning. Here are a few common last names starting with “M” from different origins, shedding light on their cultural significance and history.

Italian Last Name Starting With M

Italian last names beginning with “M” often reflect rich cultural and historical roots. These surnames can originate from occupations, geographic regions, or family characteristics. Below is a list of notable Italian surnames starting with “M.”

1. Macaluso

This Italian surname is derived from Arabic Makhlus meaning ‘liberated’.

2. Macari

Derived from Arabic Maqqari, this habitational last name refers to ‘someone from the Algerian city of Maqqarah or the Italian city of Maccari’.

3. Maccarone

Derived from South Italian Maccaroni, this is an occupational surname for a pasta maker.

4. Macchia

Macchia is an Italian topographic name that comes from the Latin word ‘macula’ meaning ‘scrub’ or ‘thicket’.

5. Macina

Macina means ‘millstone’ and is an Italian habitational name for a place.

6. Maggie

The roots of this name link back to the Italian word that refers to the month of May. Maggio is a very famous Italian surname.

7. Mammarella

This Italian surname is derived from the Italian term mamma, which means ‘mother’.

8. Mancini

Mancini is a popular Italian last name which is derived from the term Mancino, which means ‘left-handed’.

9. Manzi

Manzi is an occupational last name of Italian origin. The meaning of this surname is ‘raised steers’.

10. Massarini

This Italian last name is derived from the term Massaro and means ‘person who is the owner of lands’.

Scottish Surname That Start With M

Scottish surnames with “M” are deeply connected to clans, heritage, and geography. Many of these names carry meanings tied to the natural landscape or ancestral lineage. Let’s look at some common and unique Scottish surnames starting with “M.”

1. Maack

Derived from Mack, Maack means ‘the greatest’ in Latin and ‘charming’ in Scottish.

2. MacAfee

This Scottish surname means ‘charming’. It symbolise a pleasant or charismatic personality, and reflects Scottish cultural heritage.

3. Macall

Macall or MaCall is a Scottish and Irish origin surname derived from the Gaelic word, which means ‘the battle chief’s son’.

4. Macbeth

This Scottish origin surname means ‘son of Beth’. It is also an anglicised version of the Gaelic name MacBeatha which means ‘son of life’. A famous bearer of the surname Macbeth was the King of Scotland who also featured in the famous Shakespeare play “Macbeth”.

5. Macgowan

Derived from Scottish and Irish roots, Macgowan means ‘son of a blacksmith’.

6. Machin

Machin is a Scottish-Gaelic surname for a ‘stone mason’ and ‘a member of the ancient guild of Masons.’

7. Mackintosh

This Scottish surname means ‘son of the leader’. It signifies lineage from a prominent or leading family.

8. Macky

A variant of Scottish and Irish McKay, Macky means ‘descendant of Macdha’ or ‘manly and virile’.

9. Macmaster

This Scottish surname means ‘son of the Master’. It often referred to descendants of a leader, teacher, or clergyman.

10. Macmillan

This Scottish occupational surname means ‘son of the tonsure’. It refers to a family connected to monks or religious orders.

11. MacNaughton

This Scottish surname means ‘son of Nechtan’. Nechtan was an Irish god.

12. Macneill

This Scottish surname of Irish origin means ‘son of Neil’ and Neil means ‘champion’ in Gaelic.

13. Macphee

This Scottish surname refers to ‘a dark-featured, peaceful person’, highlighting both appearance and temperament.

14. Macquarrie

This Scottish surname means ‘proud’ or ‘noble’, symbolising dignity and elevated social standing.

15. Macqueen

This Scottish-Gaelic surname is an anglicised form of MacShuibhne, meaning ‘son of Suibhne’.

16. McAdam

Originating from Scottish and Irish roots, McAdam means ‘son of Adam’.

17. McBeth

This Scottish surname is an anglicised form of the Gaelic Mac Beatha meaning ‘son of life’ or ‘man of religion’.

18. Mccauley

This Scottish surname means ‘son of Olaf’. It reflects Norse influence, as Olaf was a common Scandinavian name.

19. McClay

This Scottish and Irish surname is derived from the Gaelic Mac an Leigh meaning’ son of the physician’.

20. McDonald

Derived from Scottish and Irish origin, McDonald is a patronym, meaning ‘son of Domhnall’.

21. McAlpine

McAlpine is the anglicised form of Gaelic’ Mac Ailpein’ and in Scottish and Irish ‘Mac Ailpin’ means ‘son of Ailpean’.

22. McGill

The anglicised version of this Scottish and Irish surname is Gaelic Ghoill meaning ‘son of the stranger’.

23. Mcleod

The Gaelic form of this Scottish surname means ‘son of Leod’. It traces back to Norse-Gaelic origins, with Leod being an early clan founder.

24. McMurdo

This patronymic Scottish surname means ‘sea battle’. It reflects a maritime or warrior heritage tied to seafaring and combat.

25. McPhail

Derived from Scottish and Irish origin, it is a variant of the name Paul, meaning ‘small’ as a term of endearment.

26. McEwen

Derived from Old Gaelic Mac Eoghainn, this Scottish means ‘son of Eogan’.

27. Moris

Moris is a common family name among English, Welsh, and Scottish people. Though the name has different variations, in French, it means ‘dark-skinned’.

28. Murray

A variant of Moray from Scottish Gaelic for ‘sea settlement’, Murray comes from the native Irish name Mac Muireadhaigh’ descendant of Muireadhach’.

Spanish Last Names Begin With M

Spanish last names with “M” often have origins in places, professions, or descriptive traits. These names are rich in history and cultural significance. Here are some notable Spanish surnames beginning with “M.”

1. Madrigal

A Spanish surname derived from poetic or musical compositions, or a place name. It signifies artistic creativity or connections to specific geographic locations.

2. Maese

Of Spanish origin, meaning “master” or “teacher.” Historically used as a title of respect for skilled craftsmen, it symbolises expertise and leadership.

3. Magallanes

A habitational surname originating from the Spanish village of Magaláns. Magallanes is commonly associated with geographic roots and local heritage.

4. Maldonado

This surname with Spanish roots originated from the term Maldonado which translates to ‘ill-favoured’.

5. Martinez

This Spanish surname means ‘son of Martin.’ Martin originates from the Latin Martinus, associated with Mars, the Roman god of war.

6. Mejia

Mejia is an ancient Spanish surname that dates back to the 1500s, which is derived from the Hebrew term messiah.

7. Melendez

Melendez is a Spanish-Basque last name commonly found in the Puerto Rican community in the United States.

8. Meza

Meza is a topographic family name derived from the old Spanish name, Meza, which means ‘plateau’.

9. Molina

Molina is an occupational last name of Spain, meaning ‘mill’ in Latin.

10. Munoz

Muñoz or Munoz is a popular Hispanic surname meaning ‘son of Muño’.

French Surnames Beginning With M

French surnames that begin with “M” reflect the elegance and history of French culture. They can be tied to professions, noble ancestry, or local regions. Below is a list of French last names starting with “M.”

1. Mabbitt

Derived from the Latin word ‘Amabilis’ meaning ‘loveable’, Mabbit is a short form of the Middle English name ‘Mabel’ and Old French name ‘Amabel’.

2. Mabee

Mabee is, and English surname derived from French’ Mabil’ or ‘Amable’ that comes from Latin Amabilis meaning ‘loveable’.

3. MacCoy

The French last name MacCoy finds its roots in the Celtic pagan God called Mac Aodha, which refers to ‘fire’s son’.

4. MacCleary

This French surname originated from the Gaelic term Mac Cléirigh and means ‘the priest’s son’.

5. Mador

This common French surname is a short form of Amadour, which comes from the Latin word Amator, meaning ‘lover’.

6. Maiorani

The famous surname Maiorani comes from the name Marogani. It was a French family who moved to Italy in the 16th century.

7. Marcott

Marcott is a French occupational surname for people ‘who grow vines’.

8. Marseille

Marseille is a habitational surname used for people hailing from the French city, Marseille.

9. Meaux

Meaux is a French habitational name derived from a town in the Rhône called Meaux-la-Montagne. So, this surname is usually with people who hail from Meaux-la-Montagne.

10. Melin

Melin is a common French surname which means ‘mill’.

11. Michelin

The surname Michelin is known by people worldwide. This French last name means ‘who is like God’.

12. Monet

Monet is a well-known French surname which is the nickname for the personal name Simon.

13. Montalvo

This French surname means ‘white mountain’, likely referring to a geographical feature or a place name.

14. Moranville

Moranville is a habitational name used for people who hail from place called Moranville in the Meuse in France.

15. Morgante

The surname Morgante originated from the Old French word Morgant which means ‘proud’.

16. Morris

Derived from the Old French name Mauris, and the Anglo-Norman de Marisco meaning ‘of the marsh’.

Irish Last Names With M

Irish last names starting with “M” are often rooted in Gaelic traditions and family lineages. Many of these names are associated with clans or historical figures. Here is a list of Irish surnames beginning with “M.”

1. Macbain

A variant of the last name McBean, Macbain is an anglicised form of Gaelic Mac a Ghille Bhain meaning’ son of the fair or white-haired lad’.

2. MacCarthy

This Irish surname is an anglicised form of the Gaelic Mac Carthaigh meaning ‘son of Carthach’ or ‘loving’.

3. Macduff

Derived from Gaelic words’ Mac duib’, Macduff means ‘the son of the black man’.

4. Macfarlane

MacFarlane is an anglicised form of the Gaelic Mac Pharlain meaning’ son of Parlan’.

5. Mackenzie

This Irish surname refers to ‘child of the wise leader’. It is also a popular unisex first name.

6. Mackie

The Gaelic form of Mac Aodha refers to ‘Aodh the fire God’ or the ‘son of Aodh’.

7. Macnair

The Gaelic form of this surname was Mac-Iain-uidhir, which means ‘son of dun John’. Another meaning of this surname is ‘son of the heir’.

8. Macnamara

This Irish surname means ‘son of the hound of the sea’. It reflects a connection to a legendary or mythological figure, symbolising strength and courage.

9. MacRae

This Gaelic patronymic surname means ‘son of grace’. It suggests a family line associated with blessings, favour, or nobility.

10. Madden

Derived from Gaelic’ Mac an Mhadaidh,’ Madden means ‘descendant of little Matthew’ or ‘gift of Jehovah’.

11. Malcolm

Derived from the Gaelic word ‘maol’ meaning ‘shaven-head’, Malcolm means ‘devotee of Saint Columba’.

12. Malone

Malone is a pretty Irish surname which originates from the term Maoileoin meaning ‘St. John’s servant’.

13. Mcauliffe

This Irish surname is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Amhlaoibh meaning ‘son of Amhlaoibh’ and the Old Norse first name Olaf.

14. McBride

McBride is the anglicised form of the Gaelic Mac Brighde which means ‘son of the servant of Saint Brighid’.

15. McCallum

McCallum is the anglicised form of the Gaelic Mac Coluim’ son or follower of Columba’. It may also have come from the Latin word Columba meaning ‘dove’.

16. McGeorge

McGeorge is a Gaelic surname meaning ‘son of George’. The name George has a Greek origin, and it means farmer.

17. Mooney

The surname originated from the Irish word Maonaigh, which means ‘wealthy’.

18. Moore

Moore is derived from Old Irish Moores meaning ‘stately’ and ‘noble.’ Its Middle English form refers to ‘persons dwelling near a moor.’

19. Moriarty

Moriarty is the English version of the Gaelic term Ó Muircheartaigh which means ‘skilled navigator’.

20. Mullen

Derived from Irish and the Gaelic Ó Maoláin, meaning ‘son of Maolán’, another meaning is ‘monk’ or ‘shaven head’.

21. Murphy

Derived from two Irish surnames Murchadha’ descendant of Murchadh’ and Mac Murchaid’ son of Murchadh’, it means ‘sea warrior’.

German Surnames That Begins With M

German surnames with “M” frequently stem from occupations, places, or characteristics. These names highlight the depth of German cultural heritage. Let’s look at some German last names starting with “M.”

1. Maag

This Dutch and German-surname is derived from Middle Dutch ‘Mage’ and Middle High German ‘Mac’, Maag means ‘relative’ or ‘kinsman’.

2. Machamer

Machamer is derived from Germanic first name Magan meaning ‘might’ or Mag meaning ‘kinsman’ and Mari that means ‘famous’.

3. Machart

This Dutch surname originates from a Germanic personal name which is composed of the elements Mag, which means ‘relative’ and hard meaning ‘strong’.

4. Maltsberger

A habitational German surname referring to people from Maltsberg or a similar locality. It signifies ancestral ties to a specific geographic area.

5. Marshall

Derived from Germanic elements Marah meaning ‘horse’ and scalc meaning servant, Marshall referred to ‘a person who tends horses’.

6. Mauer

A German surname meaning “wall” or “mason.” It was often given to individuals who worked as builders or lived near a wall or fortification.

7. Meinberg

A habitational surname of German origin, referring to people from places named Meinberg. It signifies connection to a particular region or locality.

8. Meyer

A common surname of German and Jewish origin, Meyer means “steward” or “farm manager” in Middle High German. It was often used to denote someone who managed land or estates.

9. Milch

The surname Milch is of German origin, meaning “milk” or “dairy.” It likely referred to someone who worked with milk or dairy products, such as a milkman or dairyman.

10. Miller

Miller is an occupational surname that refers to ‘the mill keeper’. It is derived from the Old Germanic name ‘Mulinari’, Old Norse name ‘Mylnari’.

Polish Last Names With Letter M

Polish surnames starting with “M” often originate from local geography, occupations, or personal traits. They are rich in history and Slavic tradition. Below is a list of Polish last names beginning with “M.”

1. Mace

Mace is a Polish surname meaning ‘Sea of bitterness’. It likely refers to a symbolic connection to hardship or emotional depth, possibly reflecting ancestral experiences.

2. Machala

Machala is a derivative of Macha meaning ‘swing’ or ‘sway’ in Polish. It’s also similar to a Czech first name Mach.

3. Machuga

Machuga has a Polish, Slovak and Slavik origin. It refers to ‘a weapon that was used as a ceremonial symbol of office’.

4. Mackowski

This Polish habitational surname refers to various places like Mackowa, Macki.

5. Madura

This Polish surname means ‘the learned man’. It likely refers to an ancestor known for their knowledge or scholarly qualities.

6. Maleski

A Polish or Slavic habitational surname, Maleski refers to people from a place named Malesz or a similar locality. It signifies ties to a specific region.

7. Mazurek

A Polish surname derived from Mazur, meaning “a person from the Mazovia region” in Poland. It also refers to a type of folk dance or pastry in Polish culture.

8. Mieczysław

A modern version of the Old Polish name Miecisław, derived from the term mietać, meaning “to throw.” It reflects dynamic action or decisiveness.

9. Mielcarek

A common Polish surname, Mielcarek is a diminutive of mielcarz, meaning “maltster.” It refers to someone who brewed or worked with malts, similar to the German and Jewish surname Meltzer.

10. Mieszko

A Polish name of ancient origin, Mieszko was borne by early rulers of Poland. It is believed to derive from “mieszać,” meaning “to mix,” symbolising unity or blending.

More Last Names That Start With M

Last names starting with “M” are found in many cultures, reflecting diverse origins and meanings. From popular names to unique last names, these names carry fascinating stories. Let’s look at a few rare names beginning with “M.”

1. Ma

Ma is a Chinese surname which means ‘horse’. It is a common surname in China and can symbolise strength, speed, and vitality.

2. Maben

Derived from Welsh Maponas or Mabon meaning’ great son,’ Maben is popular among the Celtic tribes.

3. Mabins

Mabins is derived from the Welsh name Mabon which means ‘child’. It reflects a connection to youth, innocence, or familial heritage in Welsh culture.

4. Macadam

This eccentric last name means “Adam’s son”. It is a patronymic surname, indicating descent from an ancestor.

5. Macedo

Macedo is a Portuguese topographic last name, meaning ‘apple grove’.

6. Macha

Derived from Hungarian form of Matyas and Matthew, Macha is a habitational name for ‘someone from the place Masca’.

7. Macri

This Greek-origin family name means ‘a massive person’. It likely refers to someone of large stature or strength.

8. Mahony

Mahony is a classy surname that came from the name Mathghamhan, who was the son of a prince in the 10th century. The meaning of this surname is “bear”.

9. Malatesta

Malatesta is a combination surname which is made from Mala, which means ‘bad’ and testa which means ‘character’.

10. Maloof

Derived from the Arabic word Mayoof meaning ‘fattened’, Maloof is common in Syria and Lebanon.

11. Manuel

This patronymic Hebrew surname, which is derived from the name Immanuel that means ‘God is with us’.

12. Marco

Originating from the Latin word Marcus, Marco refers to the ‘belonging to Mars’ or ‘descendant of Marco’.

13. Mariani

Mariani comes from the term Mariano which is a variant of the Latin nickname Marianus.

14. Markus

This Latin name means ‘defender’ or ‘warlike’. It is derived from the Roman god of war, Mars, symbolising strength, protection, and courage.

15. Martin

Derived from the Latin name Martinus who was the Roman god Mars, this surname means ‘warrior’ or ‘Of Mars’.

16. Matthew

Matthew means ‘gift of Jehovah’ in Hebrew, and’ gift of God’ in English.

17. Mayberry

Mayberry is an English habitational name that means ‘dweller at or near the tribal hill’.

18. McIsaac

Derived from the first name Isaac, which means ‘laughter’ in Hebrew, McIsaac means ‘son of Isaac’.

19. Mendez

Mendez is a popular family name meaning ‘descendant or son of Mendo’.

20. Mendoza

Mendoza originates from the Basque region, and it refers to ‘a cold mountain’.

21. Meyer

Originating from the Old English name Maire meaning ‘mayor,’ it means ‘officer in charge of legal matters’.

22. Mitchell

This surname is derived from the famous Hebrew name Michael. Mitchell means ‘son of Michael’.

23. Monaghan

Monaghan is a unique-sounding surname meaning ‘monk’. It may have originally referred to someone associated with a religious order.

24. Mora

This surname of Ancient Roman-Latin origin means ‘blackberry’.

25. Moreno

This Latin family name means ‘moor’, often referring to someone with a dark complexion or someone from the region of the Moors.

26. Morgan

This surname has a Welsh origin, and Morgan means ‘great kingdom’. It reflects strength, nobility, and ties to leadership or royalty in Welsh culture.

27. Mulhal

This last name means ‘devotee of Saint Cathal’. It likely refers to someone who was devoted to Saint Cathal, a popular saint in Irish and Scottish traditions.

28. Myers

Derived from Old English Maire’ mayor’, Old French mire ‘physician’ and Old Norse Myrr ‘marsh’, Myers means ‘son of Mayer’.

FAQs

1. How common are last names starting with “M” globally?

Last names starting with “M” are quite common worldwide, spanning various cultures and regions. They often derive from occupations, places, or descriptive traits.

2. Are there famous or influential individuals with last names starting with “M”?

Many influential individuals have last names starting with “M,” such as historical figures like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and political leaders like Angela Merkel.

3. Are there any specific traits associated with last names starting with “M”?

Traits associated with “M” surnames vary by cultural context. Some may reflect occupations (e.g., Mason) or geographic origins (e.g., Montana). These names often hold rich historical and cultural significance.

​​Hope this directory of surnames beginning with M had managed to shed light on the important aspects of their meaning and the people’s lives in times gone by. So, whether you’re investigating your family origins or trying to find a suitable surname that can be passed on from one generation to another, this is a good place to begin your quest for last names starting with M.

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