Mistry
An occupational surname from South Asian tradition, most likely linked to a master builder or craftsman.
The #8,832 most common surname in the United States (2010 Census) — about 1 in every 83,220 Americans shares it.
Etymology
Mistry is a South Asian surname that usually comes from a word meaning a skilled worker, craftsman, or master builder. The term is widespread in western India, especially in Gujarati usage, and is often traced ultimately to Persian influences in South Asian languages, where related forms referred to a tradesman or expert artisan. As a surname, it likely began as an occupational label for someone known for building, repair, or other skilled manual work.
History
The name is especially common among families from Gujarat and among Indian diaspora communities, where it is often treated as a hereditary surname rather than a current job title. In modern usage it can be found across India and in overseas communities in the UK, North America, and East Africa. Well-known bearers include the novelist Rohinton Mistry, which has helped make the surname familiar internationally.
Origin
Regions
Variant spellings
Fun fact
In South Asian naming traditions, surnames like Mistry can preserve an ancestor’s profession for many generations after the family has left the trade.
From the historical record
“he did in the session of 180-i. His class was most numerously attended. He also lectured upon che- mistry as well as mathematics. The opening of this private class, in apparent opposition to the university professor, brought upon him, as well as upon the students who attended him, the full indignation of the United…”
— The Scottish Nation; or, the surnames, families ... of the people of Scotland, vol. 1