Save Type Surname (from occupation) Usage English Pronounced Pron. FRANGK-lin [key · IPA] Meaning & History Derived from Middle English frankelin meaning "freeman". It denoted a landowner of free but not noble birth, from Old French franc meaning "free". See All RelationsRelated Names VariantsFrank, FranklynGiven Name DescendantFranklin(English) Categories Doctor Who actors, freedom Entry updated November 18, 2011