Last Name Armour

Learn more about the origin of the last name Armour

The meaning and origin of the last name Armour

The surname Armour is derived from the English word "armour," referring to the protective clothing worn by knights and soldiers in battle. It is an occupational surname given to those who made or sold armor. The word itself originates from the Old French "armure," which is derived from the Latin "armatura," meaning "equipment" or "armament." The surname Armour can also be traced back to the Middle Ages, a time when the use of armor was prevalent. The Armor surname may have been used to identify armorers who were skilled craftsmen in the trade of creating or repairing armor for the nobility and the military. Over time, variations of the surname emerged, such as Armor, Armorer, and Armourer, reflecting different phonetic spellings or regional adaptations. Today, the surname Armour remains fairly uncommon but can be found primarily in English-speaking countries and regions with European ancestry.

Geographical distribution of the last name Armour

The last name Armour has a relatively diverse geographical distribution, with concentrations in multiple regions around the world. The surname is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in states such as North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. These areas have historically seen high concentrations of individuals with the Armour surname.

Outside of the United States, the name Armour can also be found in parts of England, where it is believed to have originated. Scotland also has a notable presence of individuals with this surname, particularly in regions such as Lanarkshire and Ayrshire.

In addition, the name Armour has spread to various other countries, such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where it can be found in certain communities. Overall, while the surname Armour is most prevalent in the United States and parts of the United Kingdom, it has also made its way to different corners of the globe through migration and personal journeys.

Variants and spellings of the last name Armour

The last name Armour has various spellings and variations. One common variation is "Armor," dropping the silent "u." Another possibility is adding an "e" at the end, resulting in "Armoure." There are also alternate spellings such as "Armore," "Armourer," and "Armoury." The name may have originated from the Old French word "armure," meaning armor or protection, which was typically used as a surname for individuals involved in the manufacturing or trading of armors and weapons. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name may have changed depending on various factors like migration, immigration, or regional dialects. These variations and spellings showcase the adaptability of surnames and how they can morph across generations and locations. Regardless of the specific spelling, the last name Armour, in all its variations, retains its historical connection to the world of armor and protection.

Famous people with the last name Armour

One notable individual with the last name Armour is Philip Danforth Armour, an American industrialist and philanthropist. Born in 1832, he established Armour & Company, a meatpacking company that grew into a highly successful enterprise. Armour introduced innovative techniques to streamline production and distribution, revolutionizing the meatpacking industry. His company played a substantial role in supplying meat to Union troops during the American Civil War. Furthermore, Philip Armour's philanthropic efforts were admirable, as he donated substantial amounts to various educational institutions, including Armour Institute of Technology (now the Illinois Institute of Technology), to promote scientific education. His progressive ideals and business acumen left a lasting impact on the industry and society. The Armour name endures today, symbolizing innovation, philanthropy, and success.

Genealogical research on the last name Armour

The genealogical research on the last name Armour reveals a fascinating history. The surname Armour is of medieval Scottish origin, derived from the Old French word "armure" meaning "armor" or "protection." The name was likely bestowed upon those who were skilled in crafting and wearing suits of armor, reflecting their prominence and importance in medieval society. The earliest recorded instance of the Armour surname dates back to the 13th century in Scotland. Over time, various branches of the Armour family migrated to different parts of the world, particularly to other English-speaking countries. Some prominent individuals bearing the Armour name include John Armour, a Scottish politician who served as Member of Parliament in the late 18th century, and J. Ogden Armour, an American industrialist and founder of Armour and Company in the late 19th century. Today, individuals with the last name Armour can be found worldwide, carrying on the legacy of their medieval Scottish ancestors.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Armour"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025