Macé (surname)

Macé is a French surname. It is derived from the given name Macé, a vernacular form of Matthew.

Origin and Meaning:

The name is of biblical origin, derived from the Hebrew name "Mattityahu," meaning "gift of Yahweh" (Yahweh being the Hebrew name for God). Matthew became a common given name in Europe, and various forms developed, including Macé in France.

Geographical Distribution:

The Macé surname is most commonly found in France, particularly in regions such as Brittany and Normandy. It can also be found in other French-speaking areas and countries with historical connections to France.

Notable People with the Surname:

• Jean Macé (1815–1894), French teacher, journalist, and freemason, founder of the Ligue de l'enseignement (League of Education).

Variations:

Variations of the name may include Mace, Massé, Massey, and others, depending on regional dialects and spelling changes over time.

Heraldry:

Coats of arms associated with the Macé family may exist, reflecting the family's historical status and lineage, although specific details would depend on the particular branch of the family. Researching specific heraldic records would be necessary to determine the exact coat of arms associated with a particular family bearing the Macé surname.