Surname Mills - Meaning and Origin
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Being a part of a historical saga, spun throughout centuries and across continents, is something I have always wondered about. This has been elucidated by the iGENEA DNA test, which traced back the historical and cultural roots of my surname Mills. It provided me with an enlightening experience into my family's past, spanning thousands of years, unveiling connections to Anglo-Saxon England, Normandy, the Jewish Diaspora, and the corridors of the American and Irish histories.
S. Mills
read moreMills: What does the surname Mills mean?
The surname Mills is of Anglo-Saxon origin and derived from the Middle English term "mille," which means mill. This occupational surname was historically used to indicate an individual who worked in a mill or owned a mill. Mills were an important part of the feudal rural economy in the Middle Ages, grinding grains into flour for the community. Mills were typically situated near rivers or streams to harness the water power necessary for their operation. Therefore, the surname Mills could also be topographic, possibly indicating someone who lived near a mill. The surname Mills is widespread in England, particularly in the South, and in Scotland. Early instances of this surname date back to the 12th century in various English counties. As an Irish name, it is derived from the Gaelic O'Maoileoin, a patronymic form of a byname meaning 'devotee of (Saint) John'. Therefore, the last name Mills bears historical connotations of labour, resourcefulness, and critical community roles.
Order DNA origin analysisMills: Where does the name Mills come from?
The last name Mills is of English origin and was firstly used in the Middle Ages. It derives from the Middle English term "mille," meaning "mill." Typically, the surname was given to individuals who either lived near a mill or worked in a mill, thus making it a topographic or occupational name. Furthermore, this name might have also represented a miller. The usage of mills was quite popular during the olden times for grinding corn, hence making Mills a relatively widespread surname in England.
In the present time, the surname Mills is commonly found in England, the United States, and Australia. It is also somewhat common in Canada and New Zealand. In terms of distribution, the surname is most densely populated in the United States, followed closely by England. Therefore, while the name has an English origin, its usage and popularity have spread across English-speaking nations worldwide, predominantly North America and Oceania.
Variations of the surname Mills
The surname Mills originated from England, primarily denoting a person who lived near or worked in a mill. Variants for this surname include Mill, Mylls, Mille, Mylle, Millis, and Millson. Some versions changed over time due to differences in dialect and pronunciation across different regions.
The spelling variation Mill might have been used in situations where the individual owned or worked at a single mill, whereas Mills could suggest multiple mills. Mylls and Mille, Mylle are forms that may reflect older or Middle English spellings. Millis is likely a derivative of Mills and could have come into use as families moved and dialects changed. Millson denotes "son of a miller or mill owner" and may not just refer to proximity to a mill, but rather a familial connection to the profession.
Another alternative is the French-origin surname Desmoulins, which literally translates as "of the mills". Mullins is an Anglicized version of this French surname.
Müller is also used in Germany and means "miller", while its Dutch equivalent is Molenaar.
The surnames related to the profession or proximity of individuals to a mill are quite diverse due to regional and linguistic factors.
Famous people with the name Mills
- Hayley Mills: An English actress known for her roles in Disney's "Pollyanna" and "The Parent Trap".
- Sir John Mills: A renowned British actor and the father of Juliet and Hayley Mills.
- Juliet Mills: Older sister of Hayley, a successful actress known for the television series "Nanny and the Professor".
- Heather Mills: Ex-wife of Paul McCartney, known for her work as an activist.
- Charles Wright Mills: A famous American sociologist.
- Donna Mills: An American actress popular for her role in the soap opera "Knots Landing".
- Scott Mills: A popular BBC Radio 1 DJ in the UK.
- Mike Mills: Bassist for the American rock band R.E.M.
- Stephanie Mills: A Grammy-winning American singer.
- Travis Mills: An American singer and actor.
- Billy Mills: An Olympic Gold medalist in long distance running.
- Nick Mills: An American football player.
- James Mills: An American novelist and screenwriter.
- Teal Sherer: Known as Teal Mills, she is an American actress and producer.
- Florence Mills: An African-American cabaret singer, dancer, and comedian known for her work during the Harlem Renaissance.