Slavin
A surname probably from a medieval garment name, originally referring to a cloak or surcoat associated with the Slavs.
The #8,323 most common surname in the United States (2010 Census) — about 1 in every 77,555 Americans shares it.
Etymology
This surname is usually explained from Middle English slaveyn or slavin, the name of a type of cloak or outer garment. That word is thought to come from a term meaning 'Slavonian' or 'Slavic,' suggesting the garment was associated with Eastern European dress. In surname form, it likely began as a nickname for someone known for wearing such a cloak, or for some other connection with the garment.
History
The surname is found in medieval English records in forms such as Robert Sclavyn. Later it appears in Ireland as well, where it may also reflect anglicized Irish naming patterns in some cases, though the sources here mainly point to the garment origin. Modern bearers are found especially in English-speaking countries, with notable clusters in Ireland and the United States.
Origin
Regions
Variant spellings
Fun fact
In Middle English, a 'slaveyn' was a real piece of clothing, not a reference to slavery.
From the historical record
“0 Sleilaiti, Slevin, Sleavin, Sleevin, Slevan, Slavin, (?) Slamon. O SltlA^A-OAlj, 6 SlxiA5A1T)e, Slowey, Sloey, Sloy ; Molloy,”
— Sloinnte Gaedheal is Gall: Irish names and surnames