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Last Name Cryer

What is the origin of the last name Cryer?

The surname "Cryer" is of English origin and is derived from a nickname for a person who was thought to have a crying or whining voice, or who cried easily. It comes from the Middle English word "crien," meaning to cry or shout. Alternatively, it could be a metonymic occupational name for a crier or town crier, someone who made public announcements on behalf of authorities in medieval times.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cryer

The meaning and origin of the last name Cryer

The surname Cryer is an Anglo-Saxon occupational name derived from the Old English word "cryere," which means a 'crier' or 'proclaimer.' The individual with this last name may have originated as someone who was a town crier, proclaiming official announcements in public places. Over time, the surname evolved into various spellings such as Cryer, Crier, Chier, and Cyre. It is most common in England, particularly in areas that were once part of Anglo-Saxon kingdoms like Mercia and Wessex. The name was first recorded in the 13th century and continues to be a prominent surname among English speakers today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cryer

The surname Cryer is predominantly distributed across several regions in the English-speaking world, particularly in England and Wales, due to its historical origins from these countries. In England, it's most frequently found in the East Midlands, West Midlands, and Yorkshire regions. In Wales, it's notably present in South Wales, especially around Cardiff and Swansea. Outside of the United Kingdom, significant numbers of Cryer descendants can be found in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, as a result of migration during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The name is also found in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, reflecting the global dispersal of people with this surname over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cryer

The surname Cryer can be found with various spellings and variations due to differences in transcription over time and across regions. Some common variants include: Cryer, Cryers, Criyer, Crieur, Crider, Creyer, Creer, and Craiger. These variations arise from factors such as dialectical differences, minor errors during transcription, or intentional alterations to improve pronunciation. The root of the name likely originates from Old English words meaning "cry" or "call."

Famous people with the last name Cryer

Bonnie Bedelia Cryer, an American actress, is perhaps the most recognized individual with the surname Cryer. She gained prominence for her roles in movies like "WarGames" and the television series "Matlock." In addition, Rob Corddry, a comedian, actor, and writer, also shares the last name Cryer. Known for his work on the comedy series "The Daily Show" and co-creating shows such as "Childrens Hospital," he has significantly contributed to the entertainment industry. Lastly, Richard Lewis, a stand-up comedian and actor, is another well-known figure with the surname Cryer. He is recognized for his appearances in shows like "Anything But Love" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm." All three individuals have made significant contributions to various fields within entertainment.

Genealogical research on the last name Cryer

The surname Cryer is of English origin, with roots dating back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old English word "craiera," meaning "crier" or "proclaimer." Early records show that the name was primarily concentrated in the southeastern counties of England such as Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk.

One notable individual with the surname Cryer is John Cryer (1783-1852), a British surgeon who served during the Napoleonic Wars. His descendant, John Cryer (1904-1986), was an American politician who represented Missouri's 3rd congressional district for 20 years.

In the United States, the Cryer family migrated from England in several waves, primarily during the 17th and 18th centuries. They settled in various regions including Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.

The Cryer family has also been documented in other parts of the world, such as Australia and New Zealand, where they migrated during the 19th century as part of the British diaspora.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 27 July 2025

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