Surname Mayhan - Meaning and Origin
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Mayhan: What does the surname Mayhan mean?
The surname Mayhan does not have a clear, widely accepted meaning, as its origins are somewhat obscure. It appears to be of Irish origin, possibly a variant of the surname Mahan, which in turn may have derived from the Gaelic O Mathghamhna, which translates to "descendant of Mathghamhain". The name Mathghamhain means "bear" or "calf". Hence, the surname potentially signifies a person who is a descendant of a bear or a brave warrior. However, it should be noted that surname origins can be complex and multifaceted, and these interpretations of the Mayhan surname are simply suggestions. The full meaning and history may have been lost over time or may vary based on different family lineages. Therefore, it's always beneficial for individuals interested in their surname's meaning to conduct further genealogical research for more accurate understanding.
Order DNA origin analysisMayhan: Where does the name Mayhan come from?
Mayhan is a surname that originates from Ireland. The name is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name “O’Mathghamhna” which translates to "descendant of Mathghamhan". The Gaelic personal name "Mathghamhan" means bear. Irish surnames generally involve patronymic references, characterized by "O" or "Mac," which mean "descendant of" and "son of" respectively. So Mayhan likely arose to specify a person as the descendant or son of an individual named Mathghamhan.
Today, the surname Mayhan is found predominantly in the United States, followed by Canada and Australia. Within the US, it's most prevalent in the states of Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas. The surname isn't very common worldwide as it ranks as the 344,462nd most common name globally. It is important to note that the exact geographic spread of a surname changes over time due to multiple factors like migration and intermarriage. Population mobility and changing family structures could lead to the spread or decline of the surname in different regions.
Variations of the surname Mayhan
The surname Mayhan could also be spelled as Mahan, Mayan, Mayhanen, Mayhane, Mayhen, or Mayhans. These variations may have originated due to changes in late medieval script and handwriting, alteration at immigration points, or an attempt to anglicise the surname.
The Irish version of the surname Mayhan is O'Mathghamhna (O'Mahon) and it is related to the Gaelic clan-based system that existed earlier in Irish history. In Scotland, the variant of the surname is MacMathan, which literally means 'son of the bear'.
Other less common variants include Meighan, Meaghan, Megan, Maying, Mawhinney, and Meehan in Ireland and Macmahon and Mahn in Scotland.
This surname might also be related to Meehan, McMahon, Maghan, Meeghan, and Moohan, originating from Gaelic surnames Mac Mathúna and Ó Mathúna.
These surnames are likely to have similar or related meanings, often referring to a 'bear' or 'bear-cub' as in Gaelic the word 'mathghamhain' refers to 'bear'. Therefore, the surname "Mayhan" carries the sense of a mighty or powerful individual, much like a bear. All these variant surnames belong to the family of Irish and Scottish Gaelic origin.
Famous people with the name Mayhan
- Rachel Mayhan: Youtuber and Life Coach
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- Jake Mayhan: Professional Golfer