Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Major

      Origin

      Latin

      Meaning

      Better

      Variations

      Majora, Malory, Mamoru
      The name Major is of Latin origin, deriving from the word major, which translates to better in English. The significance of this name in history can be traced back to ancient Roman times when it was used as a military title. In the Roman army, a Major was an officer of higher rank and authority, second only to a Centurion. This title was given to individuals who had demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and remarkable abilities on the battlefield.

      As history progressed, the name Major became widely recognized across different cultures and societies. In modern times, it continues to be used as both a first name and a name. Many families across the globe have adopted this name, often symbolizing qualities such as strength, honor, and determination. Moreover, Major has been embraced as a given name by numerous parents who seek to instill a sense of power, excellence, and bravery in their children.

      The name Major has undoubtedly left its mark in history as a title attached to esteemed military figures. Its contemporary usage reflects its association with strong attributes and an aspirational spirit. Whether as a historical reference or a choice for a newborn, the name Major resonates with a sense of leadership and distinction.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Major.
      Mary

      Mary

      This is the most common name of those married to a Major.
      Major

      Major

      This is the most common name for a child of a Major.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1901 is when there were the most people born with the first name Major.

      Explore the origins of another name.