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". Related NamesDetails VariantsFrank, FranklynGiven Name DescendantFranklin(English) Categories American founding fathers, blues musicians, brand names, Doctor Who actors, freedom, Sesame Street characters, skiffle