Spear

Occupational

Meaning

A surname derived from the Old English word for a spear, likely indicating a spear maker or warrior.

Etymology

Spear comes directly from the Old English 'spere,' referring to the weapon. The surname likely originated as either an occupational name for a spear maker or a descriptive name for a warrior.

About the Spear Surname

Spear is an English surname with origins in the medieval period, likely referring to spear makers or warriors. The name has been established in North America since colonial times.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 12,000 bearers in the United States #1,040 most common surname
Rare Common

Found throughout England and North America, with significant populations in the United States.

Spear Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Spear Surname