SPIER

Spere, to ask, to inquire; a word used formerly in Scotland and the north of Ireland. The name may be from spear, a long-pointed weapon used in war, and given for some exploit in battle, or taken from a sign over an inn. "John at the Spear."

Arthur, William (1857) An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names. New York: Sheldon, Blakeman. Public Domain.