meier

Meier is a surname of German origin. It is a variant of Maier, Mayer, and Meyer, and it stems from the Middle High German meier, meaning a steward, bailiff, or administrator of a manor. The term originally referred to an official who managed an estate, and over time became a hereditary family name in German-speaking regions. Spelling variations arise from dialects and transliteration in different countries.

As a surname, Meier is most common in German-speaking areas. It remains widespread in Germany and Switzerland, with a notable presence in Austria. The name has also spread to countries with significant German-speaking immigration, particularly the United States, Canada, and Australia. In many cases, the same occupational surname was adopted independently by different families, leading to a broad distribution and diverse family histories.

In contemporary use, numerous individuals bearing the surname Meier have become notable in fields such as science, politics, sports, and the arts. The name does not denote a single lineage or ethnicity, but rather reflects historical occupations and regional linguistic variations. Variants of the surname—Maier, Mayer, Meyer, and Meir—appear in various cultures and languages, illustrating the common practice of adapting a core occupational name across regions.