Last Name Curry

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Curry

The meaning and origin of the last name Curry

The surname Curry is of Old French and English origin, derived from the occupation of a cook or baker. It comes from the Middle English word "curer," which means "one who cures meats." Over time, this term evolved to refer specifically to someone skilled in preparing various dishes. In its early history, the surname Curry was often found among cooks in monasteries and within royal courts. The name may also have been a topographical name for someone living near an oven used for curing meat. It is most common in England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Northern America due to historical migration patterns. Famous individuals with the surname Curry include American chef and television personality Rachael Ray, former NBA player Steph Curry, and British mathematician G.H. Hardy.

Geographical distribution of the last name Curry

The surname Curry has a significant presence across several regions worldwide, with concentrations particularly noticeable in regions that were once under British rule due to historical migration patterns. In England and Wales, it is among the top 2,000 most common surnames. In the United States, it ranks among the top 1000 surnames, with a high frequency in states like Tennessee, North Carolina, and Louisiana, reflecting the influence of early Scottish and Irish settlers. In India, Curry is also found primarily among the Christian population in Kerala, where it originated from European traders and missionaries. Moreover, the name has a presence in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Africa, indicating global dispersal over time. The geographical distribution of the surname Curry thus provides a glimpse into historical migration patterns and cultural interactions across continents.

Variants and spellings of the last name Curry

The surname Curry has various spellings and variations, reflecting its origins and migrations over time. Some common spellings include Curry, Curey, Corry, Corrie, and Correy. These differences can stem from regional dialects, phonetic changes, or clerical errors during the transcription of records. In some instances, the name may have been intentionally altered to conform with local linguistic norms or personal preference. For example, the Scottish Gaelic version of the name is Macurich, while in Wales it can be spelled Cory or Cori. Moreover, Curry is a common name among African Americans, particularly in the southeastern United States, where it may have been anglicized from an African original or adopted by enslaved Africans to blend in with their slave-owning families. These variations serve as a reminder of the diverse origins and journeys that make up our shared family history.

Famous people with the last name Curry

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Genealogical research on the last name Curry

The surname Curry is of Anglo-Saxon and Norman origin, with the earliest recorded instances dating back to the 13th century in England. It derived from various places named "Curre" or "Cure(y)e," which were found primarily in the counties of Devon and Dorset. The name is thought to be topographical, meaning either 'crooked' or 'winding,' describing a settlement or land feature with such characteristics. Over time, as many English families did during the Middle Ages, those bearing the Curry surname emigrated to other parts of Europe and the British Isles, including Ireland and Scotland. Some of these migrants eventually crossed the Atlantic, finding new homes in the American colonies, particularly in Virginia and North Carolina. Today, the name Curry is most prevalent in the United States, England, and Ireland. Notable individuals with this surname include actress Goldie Hawn, chef and restaurateur Gordon Ramsay, and former professional basketball player Steph Curry.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Curry"
• 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 : 15 June 2025

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