Surname Metcalf - Meaning and Origin

Discovering Roots and Connecting Branches: A Personal Journey with iGENEA DNA Test

Embarking on a personal journey through time using the iGENEA DNA test allowed me to explore my familial roots, understand the origin and history of my surname ‘Metcalf’, and even connect with people from the Metcalf clan across the globe.

M. Metcalf

Metcalf: What does the surname Metcalf mean?

Metcalf is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. It is derived from the Old English term "mete" which means "meat" or "food", and "cealf" meaning "calf". Hence, the original bearers of this surname were likely to have been calf herders or tenders, who reared calves for their meat. During the Middle Ages, an individual's trade or occupation often became their surname, serving as a form of easily identifiable reference. This surname can also be spelled as Metcalfe, Medcalf, and Medcalfe. It is important to note that during the spread of the surname in history, there can be different interpretations and origins in different cultures and languages. However, the commonly accepted meaning of Metcalf remains associated with the profession of calf rearing or herding.

Metcalf: Where does the name Metcalf come from?

The last name Metcalf has its origin in England. The name is derived from the Middle English words "mete" meaning food or meat, and "calf" representing calf, essentially translating to "calf for slaughter" or butcher. This suggests that the earliest Metcalf individuals probably worked as butchers or cattle farmers. The name could also possibly denote a place where calves were fattened up for market.

The Metcalf family held a family seat in Yorkshire for many generations. The village of Nappa, in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire was an important dwelling place for many early Metcalf ancestors.

Although the surname has spread across the globe due to immigration over the centuries, it is still predominantly seen in the United Kingdom- England in particular. Its occurrence is relatively significant in the United States as well, especially in places like Kansas, Illinois, and Missouri where English immigrants historically settled. Other countries where individuals bear the Metcalf name include Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Variations of the surname Metcalf

The surname Metcalf has a number of variants and alternate spellings, often due to regional and linguistic differences. Some of these include Metcalfe, Medcalfe, Medcalf, Metcalfes, Metcalfs, Metcaff, and Metcalff.

There are also several similar surnames which are potentially of the same origin as 'Metcalf'. History suggests that the name might have evolved from 'Metcalf' or vice versa. These include Medcalfe, Matcalfe and Methcalfe. In some cases, it may have been altered to a phonetically similar version like Medcalfe.

The name Metcalf originated from England, and it's believed to be a habitational name from a place called Metcalfe in the parish of Kirby in Malham Dale, North Yorkshire. The place name itself is derived from the Middle English terms 'mete', meaning meat, and 'calf', denoting a calf – thus referencing a place where food for livestock was stored.

Overall, the surname Metcalf and its variants are representative of the complex history of surnames, which often involved changes and adaptations due to factors like migration, local dialect, and personal preference.

Famous people with the name Metcalf

• Allison Metcalf: two-time Emmy-nominated actress known for her roles in theater and film.
• John Metcalf: award-winning Canadian writer who focuses on short stories and novels.
• Judd Metcalf: professional cyclist and four-time national champion.
• Rob Metcalf: American rower and silver medalist at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games.
• Chris Metcalf: former Canadian Football League (CFL) player and Dallas Cowboys running back coach.
• Michael Metcalf: American theoretical particle physicist, professor emeritus at Stanford University.
• Dave Metcalf: former Major League Baseball (MLB) player best known as a member of the Atlanta Braves.
• Kellen Metcalf: film and television actor with roles in shows like The Middle, The Magicians, and The Fosters.
• Marleen Metcalf: American sculptor and visual artist whose work explores human-animal relationships.
• Latrell Metcalf: R&B singer and songwriter who’s released several albums.

Other surnames

Metcalfe