Surname Frazier - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'F'
Uncovering My Heritage: A Review of the iGENEA DNA Test and the Revelation of the Frazier Lineage
Embarking on a journey of self-discovery with the iGENEA DNA test, a reviewer delves into the history behind the surname Frazier. Finding connections with distant relatives and learning about their ancestors' migration and way of life.
B. Frazier
read moreFrazier: What does the surname Frazier mean?
Frazier is a surname that originated from the French last name "Fraser," which further has Gaelic origins, particularly from Scotland. The meaning of the name Fraser is disputed among historians, but one common belief is that it derives from the French term 'fraise' meaning strawberry. Thus, it's suggested that the Fraziers or Frasers might have been strawberry growers. Another interpretation, based on the Gaelic roots, suggests that it originates from 'Frasach,' indicating bushes or shrubbery, implying they might have lived particularly in forested areas. Notably, the Fraser clan was one of the powerful and respected Scottish clans, popular in the Scottish Highlands. With the migration of Scottish people to other parts of the world, especially to English-speaking countries like the U.S. and Canada, the last name Fraser was often changed to Frazier, maintaining its phonetic essence. The name Frazier or Fraser is shared by many individuals worldwide, and while its original meaning might not hold personal significance to all, it certainly echoes a rich historical and cultural legacy.
Order DNA origin analysisFrazier: Where does the name Frazier come from?
The surname Frazier is of Scottish origin. It’s derived from the French word "fraisier", originally meaning strawberry. The name was given to those who owned lands known for strawberry fields. This Scottish surname was first found in Stirling, Scotland, where Sir Simon Frasee held part of the lands of Keith. Henceforth, the Frazier family held a crucial role in the history of the Scottish-English border.
There has been a variety of spellings through the centuries including Fraser, Frazer, Frazier, Frasher, Frisell, and more. The name spread throughout the world due to the Scottish diaspora, migration, and colonization.
Today, the name Frazier is popular in the United States, partly due to the large number of Scottish immigrants during the 18th and 19th centuries. Famous individuals with this name include the world heavyweight champion boxer Joe Frazier.
Despite its Scottish origins, Frazier is less common in Scotland and the United Kingdom, when compared to the United States. However, it may still be seen in areas of traditional family roots.
Variations of the surname Frazier
The surname Frazier has several variants and spelling versions, often resulting from regional pronunciation differences and transcription errors in historical records.
Common alternative spellings include Fraser, Frazer, Frasier, Frasure, Frasher, Frasher, and Frisier. Another less common variation is Fresier.
The Fraser version is most associated with Scotland and has a rich history there with its own clan and tartan. The variations Frazer and Frazier are more common in Ireland and America.
These spellings have sometimes been used interchangeably even within the same family, highlighting the fluidity of surname spelling in the past.
There are also several associated surnames or sept names. These are minor families who were under the protection of a larger clan and often took their name. Associated names of Clan Fraser include Frizell, Frisell, Frew, Frigg, Friel, and Twaddle.
Regardless of spelling, most versions of this surname are likely to originate from a French ancestor, possibly a knight named 'de Fresel' or 'de Freseliere'. The name is believed to derive from the region of Anjou in France, and it most likely refers to someone who hailed from there or perhaps lived in a place abundant with strawberries or ash trees.
Famous people with the name Frazier
- Joe Frazier: He was a world-renowned American professional boxer who competed from 1965 to 1981.
- Walt Frazier: An American former professional basketball player in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
- Kenneth Frazier: An American business executive, currently the CEO of Merck & Co.
- Marvis Frazier: A retired American professional boxer and the son of Joe Frazier.
- Jacquelyn Frazier-Lyde: An American lawyer and a retired professional boxer who is also Joe Frazier's daughter.
- Kweisi Mfume (born Frizzell Gray): An American politician and the former President/CEO of the NAACP.
- Slayer's vocalist and guitarist Tom Araya (born Tomás Enrique Araya Díaz) who is also known by his stage name "Frazier".
- Kendra Frazier: A professional figure skater.
- Phillip Frazier: A founding member of the Rebirth Brass Band, a popular New Orleans band.
- LaGaylia Frazier: An American-Swedish singer, songwriter, and actress.
- Charles Frazier: An American author, best known for his novel "Cold Mountain".
- Melanie Frazier: A neurobiologist.
- Shannon Frazier: A model and actress.
- Todd Frazier: An American professional baseball third baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball.