Surname Fitzmorice - Meaning and Origin
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Fitzmorice: What does the surname Fitzmorice mean?
The surname Fitzmorice is an Anglicised version of the Irish Gaelic name MacMurchadha, which is derived from the ancient words “Mac” meaning “son” and “Murchadha” meaning “sea warrior”. It is thought to have originated in County Louth, in the northeast corner of Ireland's Leinster province.
The name Fitzmorice is associated with the proud and powerful ancient Irish Sept of Mac Murchadha, who have played an instrumental role in Irish history throughout the centuries. The Sept was at one point led by Rory Mac Murchadha, also known as Rory O’Connor, who was the last High King of Ireland from 1166-1186 and led several battles in defense of his kingdom.
Today, the descendants of this once powerful Irish clan can be found throughout the world, bearing such related surnames as Fitzmorrice, Fitzmorris, MacMorrow, MacMorris, McMorrow, and McMurray. The Fitzmorrice family today is believed to be the largest family with this surname in Ireland.
Overall, the Fitzmorrice surname is an honourable reminder of the proud and brave warrior legacy of the ancient Mac Murchadha Sept. It is a fitting tribute to the continual legacy of the brave Irish warriors and one that continues to hold a special place in Irish hearts everywhere.
Order DNA origin analysisFitzmorice: Where does the name Fitzmorice come from?
The last name Fitzmorice is most commonly found in the United Kingdom and Ireland. It is believed to be a Norman name, and it dates back to when William the Conqueror invaded in 1066. The Norman French soldiers brought their surnames with them when they arrived, and Fitzmorice is thought to be one of those names.
The name is still prevalent in many areas of Ireland and is documented as far back as the 12th century. It is primarily found in Ulster in the province of Connacht, and there are many small towns and villages with the Fitzmorice surname throughout.
In England, the surname is somewhat less frequent, but it is still found in many areas, especially the north and west. It can be often found in Yorkshire, as well as in Derbyshire and Lancashire. In Scotland the surname is less common, but is still present as well.
The Fitzmorices were historically quite a powerful noble family in the region, so it is not surprising that their name can be found in so many areas. They were known to own land, and their descendants were often esteemed members of society. While the surname is much less frequent today, the Fitzmorice family still leaves it's lasting legacy throughout the countries it originated from.
Variations of the surname Fitzmorice
The surname Fitzmorice is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic Mac Muiris which translated to English means 'son of Morris'. It can be variously spelled as Fitzgerald, MacMorse, FitzMaurice, FitzMorris, FitzMaurice, and FitzMorice.
Variants of the surname include FitzMaewric, Fitz Morys, Fitz-Morys, Fitz Moris, Fitz Morris, Fitzmorry, Fitzmaurice, Fitzmorphine, Fitz-Mortice, FitzMoryes, Fitz-Morys, Fitz Morrice, FitzMorrey, FitzMorrys, MacMorys, MacMorrice, Morrisse and VitzMorrys.
Variations of the surname include FitzMauris, FitzMareis, MacMoorice, FitzEmorys, FitzMerice, FizMaurise, Fitz-Maurice, FitzMerris, FitzMoorice, FitzMoreice, MacMaurice, MacMorisy, MacMorsit, McMooris, McMorisy and VitzMorice.
The surname Fitzmorice is most commonly found in counties Wicklow and Galway in Ireland, where it is generally of Norman origin. It can also be found in other parts of Ireland and in England, with the spelling of 'Fitz Maurice' being predominantly found in England.
The surnames Fitzmorice, Fitzmorris, MacMorse, and Fitzgerald are all derived from the same Irish origin and are thus all considered to be variants of the same surname. The spelling can vary based on the given dialect and region, but they all still bear the same meaning and heritage.
Famous people with the name Fitzmorice
- Warren Fitzmorice: American Cuban painter who developed his style by combining Cuban and European influences.
- Lucian Fitzmorice: British-American actor, best known for starring in BBC drama The Devil's Trade and Lionsgate's Mechanic Resurrection.
- Matilda Fitzmorice: British actress who has appeared in numerous feature films, television shows, and stage productions.
- Brian Fitzmorice: former British Olympian and renowned track and field athlete.
- Nicholas Fitzmorice: Australian artist/sculptor whose works are currently show in galleries around the world.
- Gary Fitzmorice: English poet, playwright, and recording artist
- Richard Fitzmorice: Canadian professional ice hockey player with the Chicago Blackhawks.
- John Fitzmorice: Irish actor, playing leading roles in films such as Braveheart and The Edge of Heaven.
- Monica Fitzmorice: French-born American film and television actress, best known for her role as Georgina Aprella on The Sopranos.
- William Fitzmorice: British professional poker player who has won numerous competitions, including the World Series of Poker.