Miller is a surname of German and English origin that means "miller" or "grinder of grain." It is derived from the Middle High German word "mulner," which evolved into the Modern German word "Müller." The name was likely originally given to someone who worked as a miller, grinding grains such as wheat into flour.
The surname Miller can be traced back to the medieval period in Europe. In those days, many people lived in rural areas and were employed in agriculture-related jobs. Millers played an important role in this society, as they helped to convert grains into usable products like bread and pastries. As a result, the name Miller became quite common throughout Europe.
Over time, the surname Miller spread beyond its origins in Germany and England. It can now be found in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa. Despite its widespread use, however, Miller remains most commonly associated with those of German or English descent.
In some cases, Miller may also appear as a given name rather than a surname. This is particularly true in certain regions where the name has been traditionally used as both a first and last name. Regardless of whether it is used as a given name or surname, Miller carries with it a rich history and strong associations with hard work and industry.
In conclusion, the surname Miller is of German and English origin, meaning "miller" or "grinder of grain." It has a long history dating back to medieval Europe and is now found in many countries around the world. Whether used as a given name or surname, Miller carries with it a sense of tradition and heritage.
The name Miller has been a relatively uncommon one throughout much of the 20th century in the United States, with fewer than ten births per year recorded between 1915 and 1990. However, there was a notable increase in its popularity during the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the number of annual births reaching double digits every year from 1992 to 2003.
The name's popularity began to surge significantly around the mid-2000s. In 2006, there were 22 births, which more than doubled by 2008 with a total of 41 births recorded that year. This trend continued, with the number of annual Miller births increasing each year until reaching an all-time high in 2023 with 305 births.
Over the entire period from 1915 to 2023, there were a total of 1863 babies named Miller born in the United States. This steady increase in popularity over the past two decades suggests that the name Miller may continue to be a popular choice among parents for years to come.