Malkin

German

"battle-mighty"

Malkin Origin and Meaning

The name Malkin is a girl's name.

Malkin is an intriguing feminine name with medieval English origins. Historically, it served as a diminutive form of Maud or Matilda, popular in the Middle Ages. The name later developed folkloric associations, sometimes referring to a female cat (particularly a green-eyed one) or a witch's familiar in English folklore. In Shakespeare's time, 'grimalkin' referred to an old female cat or a fiery woman. This rich history gives Malkin a distinctive antique charm with subtle mystical undertones. Though very rare today, the name could appeal to parents interested in genuine historic English names or those seeking a name with a slightly mysterious, folkloric quality. Malkin's short, straightforward pronunciation contrasts with its unusual character, making it both accessible and unique.

Famous People Named Malkin

• Evgeni Malkin hockey player for the Pittsburgh Penguins

The name Malkin in Pop Culture

• Grimalkin or greymalkin an archaic term for a cat, stemming from "grey" plus "malkin," meaning cat, a low class woman, a weakling, or a mop