Eyre

Origin and Meaning: Eyre is a surname of Old French and Old English origin. The name derives from the Old French word "eyre," meaning "heir," or the Old English word "Ä“ower," meaning "your." It was often used to denote a noble rank or someone who was an heir to property or titles.

History: The surname Eyre dates back to medieval England, and records indicate that the Eyre family was prominent in various regions, particularly in Derbyshire and Yorkshire. The Eyre name can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears as both a personal name and a surname. The Eyres were landowners and played significant roles in local governance and legal matters.

Notable Bearers: The Eyre family produced several noteworthy individuals over the centuries, including judges, politicians, and explorers. One of the most famous bearers of the Eyre name was Sir James Eyre, an eminent judge who served as Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas in the late 18th century.

Variants: Variants of the surname Eyre include Eyer, Eyers, and Ayers, among others.

Modern-Day: The surname Eyre remains relatively common in the UK, with descendants of the Eyre family found across the country and beyond. Many individuals with the surname continue to uphold the legacy of their ancestors through various professions and fields of endeavour.

There are approximately 7,389 people named Eyre in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,266th most common surname in Britain. Around 113 in a million people in Britain are named Eyre.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Matthew
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Amanda
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Rachel
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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