Surname DeMille - Meaning and Origin

DeMille: What does the surname DeMille mean?

The last name DeMille is of French origin and it loosely translates to "of the mill." It indicates a family's living proximity to a mill, a place where grain is ground into flour. This surname follows a common practice in old world Europe, where last names were often derived from occupations, geographical locations or even personal characteristics. The DeMille name is most often associated with the glamorous world of Hollywood, thanks to the famous American filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille. However, it's essential to note that not everyone bearing this surname necessarily shares an ancestral connection. The spelling variations DeMille, de Mille, and Demille, are common.

DeMille: Where does the name DeMille come from?

The surname DeMille is of French origin, derived from the Old French phrase "de Mil," which means "of the mill," indicating that the original bearers of this surname likely worked in or lived near a mill. The prefix "de" in French surnames typically denotes a geographical location or a special characteristic of the person. This surname might have emerged during the middle ages in Normandy.

While it spread to different parts of the world through emigration, it is not very common. However, it might be relatively more well-known in the United States due to Cecil B. DeMille, a famous American filmmaker considered an innovator of the Hollywood film industry. So, although this surname doesn't rank high in terms of prevalence, it has left its mark in history and popular culture.

Variations of the surname DeMille

The surname "DeMille" originates from Northern France, specifically Normandy. Over the years and through migration, it has experienced various transformations in spelling and variations. Some of these different spellings include DeMelle, DeMell, DeMillac, DeMill, DeMilla, DeMello, and DeMellier.

Another common variant of DeMille is "Demille." People in North America sometimes use the uncapitalised version 'de Mille.' In Latin countries, it is also possible to see it as 'de Mille' or 'deMille.' The deliberate detachment or attachment of the "de" prefix generally depends on personal preferences or immigrational documentation.

Other possible origins of DeMille relate it to the topographic name for someone who lived near a mill, deriving from Middle English 'mille.' In this case, surnames like Milner, Miller, Mills, could be distant relatives of the original DeMille.

A famous bearer of the name DeMille is the American filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille, whose family descended from Dutch settlers originally named "de Mel." This indicates a possible Dutch origin or variation of the surname, suggesting spellings like Demel, de Mel, or DeMel as other potential variants.

Please note that the surname's variations and their association with the original "DeMille" heavily depend upon regional migratory patterns and the consequent phonetic adaptations.

Famous people with the name DeMille

• Cecil B. DeMille: An influential American filmmaker, DeMille was known for pioneering many aspects of Hollywood's film industry, and for his epic films, such as "The Ten Commandments" and "The Greatest Show on Earth."
• William C. DeMille: Brother to Cecil, he was also an esteemed figure in American theater and cinema, having contributed to the growth of Hollywood as a playwright and film director.
• Agnes DeMille: Daughter of William, Agnes carved her name in the world of dance and choreography. She is best known for her work on Broadway musicals such as "Oklahoma!" and "Brigadoon."
• Constance Adams DeMille: Another child of William C. DeMille, Constance was an established author who also dabbled in acting for a brief period.
• Katherine DeMille: Not a blood relative but an adoptive daughter of Cecil B. DeMille, Katherine was a Canadian-American actress known for her roles in "Viva Villa!" and "Charlie Chan at the Olympics."
• Anthony Quinn: Born Antonio Rodolfo Quinn Oaxaca, he was Katherine DeMille's first husband. Although not a DeMille by name, he is related through marriage and counts among the famous people in the extended DeMille family. Quinn was a renowned actor, painter, and writer.

Other surnames

DeMilles