Surname Meke - Meaning and Origin
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Meke: What does the surname Meke mean?
The surname Meke is not common and does not have a specific known meaning attached to it. It may have diverse origins as it can be found in different regions across the globe, including in African and Polynesian cultures. In Fiji, for instance, 'Meke' refers to a traditional form of dance or performance. However, this does not necessarily translate into a meaning for the surname, as last names often derive from occupations, geographical locations, or ancestors' names. Therefore, the surname Meke could denote a familial or regional relationship, or possibly a profession in ancestral terms. It is crucial to trace the individual family lineage or consult comprehensive genealogical resources to ascertain the precise meaning of the surname 'Meke.' An individual's specific cultural or ethnic context will provide the most insightful understanding of the surname's origin and meaning.
Order DNA origin analysisMeke: Where does the name Meke come from?
The surname Meke is of African origin. It is primarily found in Malawi. The name is prevalent among the Chewa, Tumbuka, and Nyanja ethnic groups. In Malawi’s social organization, surnames are of great importance as they are commonly associated with one's lineage or clan. However, the distribution and prevalence of surnames can change over time due to migration and intermarriage. It's vital to note that surnames can also be found beyond their original localities due to these factors.
Presently, the surname Meke can also be found, albeit less commonly, in other countries including Zambia, Mozambique, and Tanzania, mainly due to migration patterns. In these countries, people with the Meke surname are typically of Malawian descent. Outside Africa, the surname can be encountered more sporadically, with notable presence in the United Kingdom, United States, and Australia, largely due to more recent migration. Despite its geographical spread, Meke remains most common in Malawi.
Variations of the surname Meke
The surname Meke originates from several different cultures, leading to multiple spelling variations and origins. The most common variant of Meke is Meek, which is of Scottish and English origin. This surname can also be found in Ireland. The variant Meekes is found in England.
There are also alternative spellings of the surname such as Mekie, Meik, Mek, and Mieke that are usually associated with countries in Europe like Scotland, the Netherlands, and Germany.
The surname is derived from the Middle English word "meeke" or "meek", which means "humble" or "mild".
In African countries like Zambia and Malawi, Meke is a native surname. Also, it is used as a first name for boys in several Pacific Island nations including Tuvalu, Samoa, and Fiji.
Some other potential surnames of the same origin could include Meeker, Meakin, or Meeks. These are all likely derived from the same root word and share similar meanings. The Meke surname, while not common globally, has significant cultural relevance in the nations where it is commonly found.
Famous people with the name Meke
- Baumann Meke: He is a former Tanzanian football player and manager.
- David Meke: Also known as "Rasta Dave”, David is a contemporary soul artist from Los Angeles, California.
- Eduard Meke: Eduard is a Ukrainian Greco-Roman wrestler, who also won bronze medals in the 2006 World Wrestling Championships and in the 2002 Asian Games.
- Emeka Meke: He is a former Nigerian footballer who played as defender.
- Godefroid Meke: Godefroid is a Belgian Roman Catholic prelate and Archbishop of Luxembourg from 2007 until his retirement in 2013.
- Jean Meke: Jean is a former Belgian football striker.
- Keve Meke: Keve is a Congolese professional footballer, who plays as a left midfielder.
- Patrick Meke: Patrick is a former Zambian footballer, who played in the Zambian sides Zanaco and Power Dynamos.
- Robert Meke: Robert is a former Ghanaian footballer, who played as a winger.
- Thompson Meke: Thompson is a Nigerian football forward, who played for many clubs in the Nigerian Premier League.