ORR
Orr
Overview: Orr is a Scottish and northern English surname derived from the Old Norse personal name 'Orri', which means blackcock (a bird of the grouse family). The surname Orr is predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Origins: The surname Orr dates back to the medieval era when the use of hereditary surnames became customary in Britain. It is believed to have originated from personal names given to early ancestors based on characteristics, occupations, or locations.
Distribution: Orr is a relatively uncommon surname, with the highest concentration in Scotland, particularly in the regions of Lanarkshire, Ayrshire, and Renfrewshire. It is also found in Northern Ireland, where many Scottish families settled during various periods of migration.
Notable Individuals:
- Bobby Orr (1948-): Canadian ice hockey player regarded as one of the greatest defensemen in the history of the sport.
- James Orr (1770-1816): Irish poet and social reformer known for his work in promoting the rights and interests of the working class.
Variants: Variants of the surname Orr include Oar, Oare, Ore, and Oure. These variations may have developed over time due to regional dialects and the phonetic spelling of names in historical records.
Coat of Arms: The Orr family crest typically features symbols such as a wild boar's head and a ladder, representing strength, courage, and aspiration.
Conclusion: The surname Orr holds a rich history rooted in Norse and Scottish origins. It has produced notable individuals across various fields and continues to be cherished by descendants bearing the name today.
There are approximately 10,250 people named Orr in the UK. That makes it the 907th most common surname in Britain. Around 157 in a million people in Britain are named Orr.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Alison
- Dorothy
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jane
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.