Surname Merriweather - Meaning and Origin
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Merriweather: What does the surname Merriweather mean?
The last name Merriweather is thought to be of English origin. It is thought to derive from the Old English words ‘maere’ and ‘weder’ which combined mean ‘happy weather’, or, in other words, a happy time. This can imply a sense of optimism and cheerfulness about the family or person who bears this name.
The name could have initially been awarded to a family or clan from the countryside with a reputation for being particularly good natured and kind. It could also signify a family who enjoyed outdoor activities and spent time in the fresh air – something that helps to promote a more positive outlook.
The Merriweathers of today may be characterised by a strong moral code, seeking enjoyment and hope even in the worst of times. They tend to enjoy the simple and creative pleasures of life such as crafts, sports, music, and socialising with friends. Merriweathers are often said to remain loyal and true and tend to excel in any endeavour they put their minds to.
In sum, the last name Merriweather is an honorable one full of positivity and encouragement. For those with this last name, it is a reminder to look on the bright side and enjoy life’s experiences. In every season, Merriweathers remain optimistic and cheerful, which is why happiness may not be far away for those with the last name Merriweather.
Order DNA origin analysisMerriweather: Where does the name Merriweather come from?
Merriweather is most commonly found in the United States. It is among the top 1000 surnames in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Merriweather is especially common in the Southern United States, with many states including Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia having a high concentration of Merriweathers.
The surname Merriweather can be traced back to the 18th century United States. The website ancestory.com notes that the earliest record of Merriweather as a surname was found in Salem, Massachusetts in 1790. The name was most likely of English or Scottish origin and is related to the family of Merriewether or Merriwether.
The most famous bearer of the name Merriweather is likely the late Leslie "Les" Merriweather, a successful jazz-funk and disco drummer from New York City. Merriweather was best known for his work with funk bands in the 1970s such as Kleeer, Linda Clifford, and The Spinners. Merriweather was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.
The Merriweather name is also associated with American Revolutionary War Patriot Tarlton Wood Merriweather, as well as Benjamin Franklin Merriweather, an African American teacher and school administrator in Ohio. Various other Merriweathers have served in the military, been lawyers and farmers, or worked in the medical field.
Today, the surname Merriweather is most recognizable among those whose families remain in the South. The legacy of the original Merriweathers remains alive in the United States today.
Variations of the surname Merriweather
The Merriweather surname has many different variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. The most common spelling is Merriweather, but other forms of the surname include Meriwether, Merriwether, Mariwether, Mirriwether, Miriwether, Marriweather, Marriwether, Morriwether, Mirriweather, and Merywether.
The Merriweather, Merriwether, and Marriweather forms of the surname are derived from “merry weather”, which was a common way to wish someone good luck or joyous weather. The Mariwether form of the surname originated from an old French name “Marie” plus “wether”, which was derived from the Old English word for a ram. Similarly, the Mirriwether form originated from an old French name “Miria” plus “wether”.
The Meriwether, Mirriweather, and Merywether forms of the surname come from “meret”, the Old English word for joy. The Miriwether form is derived from “mir”, the Old English word for peace, plus “wether”. Finally, the Morriwether surname is derived from “mor”, the Old English word for moorland, plus “wether.”
Regardless of the different spellings, the Merriweather surname originated from “merryweather” or “merry wether”, which has been a common way to wish someone good luck or joyous weather in many cultures.
Famous people with the name Merriweather
- Lenny Kravitz: American singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and multi-instrumentalist
- Kevin Hart: Comedian, actor, producer, and businessman
- Dave Merriweather: Former NBA player
- Samantha Merriweather: American contemporary oil painter
- Audrey Merriweather: American television producer
- Dean Merriweather: Comedian and actor
- Lesley Merriweather: American actor and director
- Will Merriweather: Musician and producer
- Tristan Merriweather: American singer, songwriter, and actor
- Austin Merriweather: Renowned restaurateur, philanthropist, and author