Surname Esquire - Meaning and Origin

Esquire: What does the surname Esquire mean?

Esquire is not a last name but a social title that is used in the context of the British honorific system. Historically, it has been a rank above gentleman and below knight in the British social hierarchy, often given to men who served as a squire or the eldest son of a knight. The title 'esquire' was also traditionally used in formal correspondence to address men of higher social rank. In the legal profession in the United States, Esquire is used as a title of courtesy in correspondence and other written notations appended to the surname of a lawyer. It is currently an informal term commonly used to imply respect and professional status. It's often abbreviated as "Esq." after the name. However, it is important to note that 'Esquire' does not serve as a last name anywhere in the world; it is simply a title or an honorific used before or after a person's name.

Esquire: Where does the name Esquire come from?

The last name Esquire is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, particularly the United Kingdom. During the Middle Ages, the term Esquire was derived from the Latin word scutarius, which meant "[shield] bearer". It was then used as an honorary title given to individuals who had achieved a certain level of prominence in the realm, particularly those of high wealth and rank.

In modern times, the last name Esquire is used mostly as a surname and professional title; someone who holds the rank of Esquire is a high-ranking, professional figure. It is also sometimes given to members of the legal profession in recognition of their achievements, such as barristers and solicitors. It is also used among military officers and diplomats in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Esquire is also a popular first name in the United Kingdom. It is said to be derived from the French word escuyer, which itself is derived from the Latin word scutarius. It is typically used as a middle name by British parents looking to give their child an air of nobility.

Outside of England, the last name Esquire is rarely used. It is less common in places such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, although there are still some people who bear the name.

Variations of the surname Esquire

The surname Esquire is derived from Old French and Latin roots, meaning "shield bearers." It was typically used to denote a property owning knight or member of the landed gentry in medieval England. Variations of Esquire include Squire, Squyers, Esquier, Esquires, Esquiare and Escuyer.

Sometimes, the spelling of Esquire was changed to Squire, due to spelling and pronunciation errors. Squire also became a popular alternate spelling and the title of a personal assistant to a knight. In parts of Wales, the Spellacy and Spellissy variants of Esquire are sometimes seen. Esquire can also be spelled Esquiers, Esqyre and Escuiers.

Spelling and pronunciation of the surname can vary according to geographical location and time period. In the United States, some variations such as Desquire, Escruire, Isquier, Squiar, Skuer, and suites have been recorded. Minor alterations or elaborations of the Esquire surname can be found in Ireland and Scotland, such as Esquiar, Esquiers, Isquier and Esquireli.

In some cases, spelling variations can also appear as a surname. Possible surnames derived from Esquire include Squier, Escuier, Squiers, Escuyer, Squiree, Squires, Escuer, Squiars, Squiral, Escuare, Squirrell, Squyx, and Squirky.

Altogether, there are many different spellings and variants of the surname Esquire around the world. While many of the variations are similar in spelling and pronunciation, they have different origins and meanings, ranging from medieval knight and gentry to a personal assistant to a knight. As such, this name is quite interesting and complex, especially in its origins.

Famous people with the name Esquire

• Kenneth Esquire: is a producer whose credits include television shows like Odd Mom Out, Ugly Betty, Nurse Jackie, and Family Guy.
• Darryl Esquire: is an American producer, writer, and editor who has won numerous awards for his work on films like The Bling Ring and The Fighter.
• Sam Esquire: is an English journalist, best known for his work with The Independent newspaper.
• John Esquire: is an English actor who is best known for his roles in Annihilation and Black Mass.
• William Esquire: is an English barrister and legal scholar who is the current Solicitor General for England and Wales.
• David Esquire: is an American musician who has worked as a session musician on albums by artists such as Willie Nelson and Kenny Loggins.
• Edward Esquire: is an American politician who served as the mayor of New York City from 2002 to 2013.
• Steven Esquire: is a Canadian film director and screenwriter, best known for films like Saw VI and Saw III.
• Joe Esquire: is an American lawyer and legal analyst, best known as the host of the legal show "This Week in the Courtroom".
• Amanda Esquire: is an Australian journalist and author who is best known for her work on the ABC News show "Q&A".

Other surnames

Esquier