The May Family History

What Does the May Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname May is of English, Dutch, German, French, Danish, and Scottish origins. It serves as a diminutive of the personal name Matthias, with its Norman French variant being Maheu. This name can function both as a given name and a surname, and it also denotes the month of May in the Gregorian calendar. In the Irish language, the term Miadhach conveys meanings of honor or pride. Variations of the name include Mayes and Mays. Individuals bearing the surname May predominantly trace their ancestry to England, Ireland, and Germany. In England, the name is particularly concentrated in the southern regions, especially within the counties of Gloucestershire and Sussex, as well as in London. In Scotland, the highest concentrations of the May surname can be found in the counties of Lanarkshire and Aberdeenshire. In the United States, notable populations of families with the surname May are located in Ohio, Kentucky, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois. During the 1880s, many individuals with this surname were engaged in agriculture. Notable bearers of the surname include Dave and Darrell May, both of whom are recognized professional baseball players; Sir Francis Henry May, who served as the Governor of British Hong Kong from 1912 to 1919; Jack May, a distinguished English actor; Julian May, a celebrated author; Mathilda May, a renowned French actress; Sean May, a professional basketball player; Thomas May, a 17th-century English poet; Graham May, a weightlifter from New Zealand; Bob May, a professional golfer; Jonathan May, a cellist and conductor; Elaine May, an acclaimed screenwriter and director; and Hugh May, an architect from the 17th century in England.