Surname Lorimer - Meaning and Origin
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Lorimer: What does the surname Lorimer mean?
The last name Lorimer is of occupational origin, deriving from the Old French term "lorimer" or "loriner", which was used to denote someone who made bits, spurs, and metal mountings for horse bridles. This term itself comes from the Latin "lorum" which means "rein or bridle". The profession and hence, the surname Lorimer, became more common in medieval times, especially in the areas now known as France and England, when horses were widely used for transportation and warfare, and horse gear was in much demand. Thus, anyone bearing the surname Lorimer can trace their ancestry back to individuals who worked as artisans creating horse tack. Like many other surnames of occupational origin, this became a hereditary surname being passed on through generations, irrespective of the bearer's profession. Over time, families with this name have spread throughout the world while maintaining their historical roots to their crafty ancestors.
Order DNA origin analysisLorimer: Where does the name Lorimer come from?
The surname Lorimer has a Scottish origin. It comes from the Old French word "lorimeor," which means "bit maker," a reference to someone who makes bits, spurs, and other small metallic objects used in horse riding. "Lorimers" were artisans skilled in crafting these metallic items. The name may have originated from Normandy, and was brought to Scotland by the Normans.
The name is widespread in Scotland, particularly in the areas of Edinburgh, Langholm, and Fife. Although less prevalent than in Scotland, Lorimer is also found in England, primarily in the region of Northumberland. Given past migrations, through the centuries, descendants of the original Lorimers gradually migrated to other nations. As such, it can be found in America, Canada, Australia, and South Africa. Internet surname databases and census data suggest that in terms of population, the United States has the largest number of people with the Lorimer surname today. Despite its spread, the name is not exceedingly common in any particular region, maintaining a relative scarcity wherever it appears.
Variations of the surname Lorimer
The surname Lorimer, of occupational origin, is derived from the Old French "lorimer" or "loremier," referring to bit and spur making. Variants of the name include Lorimor, Lorimore, Lorrimore, Lorrimor, Lorriman, Loremer, and Loremore.
The surname has several anglicized and different spellings such as Larramer, Larrimore, Larimore, Lorrimer, and Laremour. Scottish variations include Laurie, Lawrie, Lorrie, Lowrie – where "Laurie" eventually became a standalone first name.
In some cases, it can also be found under the surname Loriner. This is a consequence of the old English pronunciation and spelling of the French word, which was also adapted to the surname Lorriner or Lovering. The addition of an extra 'r' helps preserve the original pronunciation and hence these emerged as different surnames.
Loremar, Larmer, Larimore, Larmour are besides among the Irish variants of the surname, while Lorimier and Lorimy are among the French variations. The surname has been variously spelled in different countries and cultures around the globe influenced by the local language and phonetic interpretations.
Famous people with the name Lorimer
- Laura Lorimer, writer, speaker, and ordained pastor
- Paul Lorimer, filmmaker and Emmy-winning documentary maker
- Helène Lorimer, Canadian swimmer and Olympic silver medalist
- Alan Lorimer, Scottish football historian and broadcaster
- Gavin Lorimer, former ice hockey player
- Alexander Lorimer, former Member of Parliament in the Canadian House of Commons
- James Lorimer, Scottish publisher
- Jessica Lorimer, British alpine skier
- Mike Lorimer, former American football wide receiver
- Wendy Lorimer, British film producer