Coleman (surname)

Coleman is a common surname of English, Irish, and sometimes Scottish origin. It has several possible derivations:

• English: It can be derived from the Middle English personal name "Cole," a short form of "Nicholas," combined with the suffix "-man," denoting a servant or follower of Cole. Therefore, it originally meant "servant of Cole."

• Irish: It can be an anglicized form of the Gaelic surname "Ó Colmáin," meaning "descendant of Colmán." Colmán is a personal name derived from "colum," meaning "dove." Several Irish saints bore the name Colmán, contributing to its popularity.

• Scottish: In some cases, particularly in southwest Scotland, it may be a variant of "Caldwell" or "Colville," altered through assimilation.

The Coleman surname is found in various parts of the world, most notably in English-speaking countries. Significant concentrations exist in the United States, England, Ireland, Canada, and Australia.

Due to its multiple origins, individuals with the Coleman surname may have different ancestral backgrounds. Genealogical research is necessary to determine the specific origins of any particular Coleman family.

Notable people with the surname Coleman include:

• Ornette Coleman (1930-2015), American jazz saxophonist and composer.
• Gary Coleman (1968-2010), American actor.
• Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman (born 1996), American actress and singer, known mononymously as Zendaya.