Müller (surname)
Müller is a common German surname. It is derived from the Middle High German word "müller" and the Middle Low German word "molner," both meaning "miller." This indicates that the original bearer of the surname was a miller, someone who owned or operated a mill, typically for grinding grain.
Origin and Distribution:
The surname Müller is one of the most frequent surnames in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Its widespread presence reflects the historical importance of milling in these regions. Due to German emigration, the name can also be found in other countries around the world, often anglicized to "Miller" or other similar variations.
Variations:
Due to regional dialects and spelling variations over time, the surname has several variants, including:
- Mueller
- Miller (Anglicized)
- Moller
- Möller
- Mylly (Finnish, often an adopted name meaning "mill")
Notable People:
Many notable individuals bear the surname Müller. A few examples include (but are not limited to):
- Gerd Müller (footballer): A famous German footballer.
- Thomas Müller (footballer): A contemporary German footballer.
- Herta Müller (writer): A Nobel Prize laureate in Literature.
- Johannes Müller (physiologist): A prominent German physiologist.
Frequency and Significance:
The sheer number of people with the surname Müller underscores its historical significance related to the milling profession and its role in European society. The surname's variants and distribution reflect patterns of migration and linguistic evolution.