Meaning & Origin:
Mäkinen is a Finnish surname meaning “small hill” or “of the hill,” derived from “mäki” (hill) with the suffix “-nen,” which denotes a diminutive or belonging.

History & Notable People:
Common in Finland, Mäkinen reflects the country’s geographic features, as many families were named based on their location. A notable bearer is Tommi Mäkinen, a Finnish rally driver and four-time World Rally Champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest in the sport.