Merten

Merten is a Low German and medieval German form of Martin, itself derived from the Latin name Martinus, which comes from Martis, the genitive form of Mars, the Roman god of war, giving it the broad sense of belonging to Mars or warlike. The name spread widely across medieval Europe through the influence of Saint Martin of Tours, the fourth-century bishop venerated throughout the Christian world. Merten represents a regional vernacular development of the name, found particularly in northern and central German-speaking areas. Related forms include Marten, Martin, Martijn, and Maarten.