Discover people named Jonathan Metcalf

The last name Metcalf has its origins in England, specifically deriving from the Old English personal name "Mædcalf," which translates to "calf of the meadow," indicating a connection to pastoral life and agriculture. This surname is believed to have first appeared in the northern regions of England, particularly in Yorkshire, where the landscape and farming practices would have influenced the naming conventions. Historically, those who bore the name Metcalf were likely associated with farming or livestock, reflecting the agrarian society of medieval England. Variations of the surname can be found in different regions and cultures, including Metcalfe, which is a common alternative spelling, and Metcalf may also appear in records as Metcalfe or even Metcalfson in some contexts. These variations often arise from regional dialects and the evolution of language over time. The surname Metcalf is relatively uncommon today but retains historical significance, particularly in genealogical studies related to English ancestry.