Makinen
The origin of the surname Makinen
Mäkinen joins mäki, “hill,” with -nen.
What kind of surname is Makinen?
As a toponymic (locational) surname, the surname Makinen originally described where its bearer lived or came from — a village, region, landscape feature or landmark. When people moved from one place to another, neighbours often identified the newcomer by their place of origin, and that association became a lasting family name. Some toponymic surnames name a specific town or county; others describe the local terrain, such as a hill, wood, field, ford or bridge beside which a family lived. These names are a kind of map of migration and settlement, recording where earlier generations put down roots.
Variants & spellings
- Mäkinen
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Makinen mean?
The surname Makinen means Of the hill. Mäkinen joins mäki, “hill,” with -nen.
Where does the surname Makinen come from?
Makinen is a surname of Finnish origin.
What kind of surname is Makinen?
Makinen is a toponymic surname, originally describing where the bearer lived or came from.
How common is the surname Makinen in the United States?
Makinen ranks #39,678 among U.S. surnames (2010 U.S. Census), recorded for about 521 people.