Surname Matlock - Meaning and Origin
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Q. Matlock
read moreMatlock: What does the surname Matlock mean?
The surname Matlock is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from a place name in Derbyshire, England. The place was originally known as "Mæthel-ac" in Old English, which translates to "Moot-oak" — the oak tree where meetings (moots) were held. Through the years, it has undergone several transformations including Matlac, Mattelache, Matlac, and eventually Matlock. Thus, the surname Matlock essentially connects to an important gathering spot, specifically an oak tree, which played a significant role in the community discussions and decision-making process during the Anglo-Saxon times. It is an indicator of someone whose ancestors likely inhabited or came from this region.
Order DNA origin analysisMatlock: Where does the name Matlock come from?
The surname Matlock is of Anglo-Saxon origin, originating from a place name in Derbyshire, England. The name is derived from the Old English words "maethel," meaning "meeting place" or "assembly," and "ac," meaning "oak." Thus, it could mean "assembly oak" or "meeting place by the oak tree." Matlock was a common place for local councils or meetings in ancient times. The town of Matlock in Derbyshire has been recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as "Meslach."
Today, the surname Matlock is found predominantly in the United States, England, and Australia, with the highest concentration in the United States. In the U.S., it's common in states like Texas, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, and California. In England, aside from Derbyshire, it's also found in Yorkshire and Lancashire. Though not as common in Australia, the name can still be found there. The global distribution pattern suggests a significant migration of people from the British Isles to the United States and Australia.
Variations of the surname Matlock
The surname Matlock is of English origin, derived from the place name Matlock in Derbyshire, England. Variations of this name can include various spellings and phonetic equivalents influenced by regional dialects, migration, and transcription errors in historical documents.
These can include Matlack, Mattlock, Matlok, Matlacke, Matlacki, and Madlock. These surnames likely come from the same root but have diverged over time due to geographic distances and the evolution of language.
The surnames can be further transformed when families emigrate to non-English speaking countries; for example, Matlachowski, Matlak, Matlacz, or Matlakiewicz may occur in Poland, while Metlock or Metlocke could be variants in German-speaking countries.
While these variations exist, it's essential to be aware that the existence of these surname variants doesn't automatically mean that these families are related. Detailed genealogical or genetic research would need to be conducted to confirm ties between the different Matlock variations.
Please note that the variations provided are speculative; linguistic and cultural nuances can affect surname evolution, making it complex and multifaceted. As such, this list might not cover all possible variations of the surname Matlock.
Famous people with the name Matlock
- Andy Griffith: He was an American actor, comedian, television producer, Southern gospel singer, and writer. He is best known for his starring roles in the 1960s sitcom The Andy Griffith Show and in the 1986 legal drama series Matlock.
- Mette-Marit, Crown Princess of Norway: Crown Princess of Norway and wife of Crown Prince Haakon. Her maternal grandparents were buried in Matlock, Derbyshire, England.
- Ty Matlock: He is an American musician and record producer. He is a founding member of country music band Matlock and The Law and has been involved in various projects from all genres.
- Hearth Matlock: He is an American actor and producer best known for playing Frankjim in the 2007 film Never Back Down.
- Chris Matlock: He is an American singer and songwriter best known for his single "Another Day in the Sun" released in 2009.
- Michael Matlock: He is an American football defensive end who plays for the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
- Juan Matlock: He is an American soccer player who currently plays for Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters.
- Nick Matlock: He is an American actor, model and musician best known for his appearances in various commercials and music videos.
- Michelle Matlock: She is an American actress best known for her performance in the television series Melrose Place.
- Chris Matlock Jr: He is an American football player who currently plays for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks.