Historical Family Picture

What does your surname mean?

As every genealogist knows, we're all the product of our family's history. But genetics aren't the only thing that we pass down the generations. Used to identify our familial bonds, surnames link us to even our most distant ancestors. If your curious about your family history, doing a surname search is a great place to start.

The origin of your last name can reveal a lot about your earliest ancestors' birthplaces, occupations and more.

Look for your surname

Surname of the week

Morris

If you meet a Morris, tell them...

The Morris surname origin is varied, but is mostly believed to originate in the British Isles (where it is the 32nd most common name in England and Wales and has been found in the border between these countries as early as the Norman Conquest of 1066). Morris is thought to most often be a patronymic name, referring to the personal name 'Maurice' in England and Scotland, or 'Meurig' in Wales. The surname Morris can also sometimes be derived from someone who lived on the moors. In English-speaking countries it can also be seen as an anglicisation of the German name 'Moritz'.

Interesting facts about Morris

How common is your surname?

39th most common surname in the UK

We have for the Morris surname. The oldest one dates back to 1220.

Who were Morrises most likely to marry?

Our tell us which families married Morrises.

What are the most common Morris first names?

John

William

Mary

Elizabeth

Our tell us the names of Morris family members

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