Mears

Mears is both a surname of English origin and a toponym used in several places in North America. As a surname it appears in English and American records dating to the medieval period, and has spread to other English-speaking regions through migration and settlement.

Etymology and variations: The origin is linked to Anglo-Saxon or medieval place-names and may be connected to topographic features such as a lake or boundary, though the precise derivation varies by family. Variants include Meares and Meers, reflecting different spellings in historical records.

Geographic usage: In the United States, Mears is the name of at least one small town, notably Mears, Michigan, located in Oceana County. The name also appears in other place-names and as a surname in multiple states.

Notable individuals and institutions: The surname has been borne by several public figures in sports, arts, and academia, though no single individual dominates its historical record.

Related terms: The spellings Meares, Mear, and Meers are related forms found in historical records and contemporary usage.