Speir

Origin: Speir is a Scottish surname which has spread to England and other parts of the United Kingdom. The name is of topographic origin, derived from the Middle English word "spere" meaning "spire" or "tall, slender structure." This suggests that the name may have originally referred to someone who lived near a spire or some other structure of a similar shape.

Distribution: The surname Speir is not as widely distributed as some other British surnames, but can be found in various regions across the UK, particularly in Scotland and the north of England.

Notable Individuals:

  • John Speir (1892-1976) - Scottish footballer who played for several clubs in the early 20th century.
  • Margaret Speir (1925-2013) - British author known for her works in the field of children's literature.
  • Rachel Speir - Contemporary British artist known for her unique mixed media creations.

Variants: Variants of the surname Speir include Spiers, Spires, and Speare.

Coat of Arms: The Speir family crest typically features elements such as a spire or tower, reflecting the surname's origin in a topographic feature.

Historical Significance: The Speir surname may have roots dating back to medieval times in Scotland, with early records suggesting its presence in various parts of the country. Over the centuries, individuals bearing the name have made contributions to different fields, leaving a mark on British history and culture.

Modern Presence: Today, the Speir surname continues to be borne by individuals across the UK and beyond, maintaining a connection to its historical origins while adapting to the changing times. The name serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of British surnames and their diverse origins.

There are approximately 161 people named Speir in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Speir.

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

  • Adrian
  • Alan
  • David
  • Derek
  • Edward
  • Francis
  • Frank
  • Gordon
  • James
  • John
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Amanda
  • Anne
  • Belinda
  • Carol
  • Donna
  • Elizabeth
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Maureen
  • Natalie
  • Rosemary
  • Sarah

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