Last Name Demers

Learn more about the origin of the last name Demers

The meaning and origin of the last name Demers

The surname Demers is of French origin and is derived from the word "du mareis," which means "of the marsh." It is a topographic surname that was likely originally given to someone who lived near or on marshy land. The name may have also been a nickname for someone who had a connection to marshy or damp areas. The Demers surname was first found in the region of Normandy in France. Over time, individuals with the surname emigrated to other French-speaking regions, including Quebec in Canada. The name is quite common in Quebec, where French settlers colonized during the 17th and 18th centuries. Many descendants of these early settlers still carry the Demers surname today. Some members of the Demers family also migrated to the United States, particularly to states such as Massachusetts, Maine, and Louisiana, where French influence was significant. Today, the surname Demers can be found in various French-speaking communities across North America.

Geographical distribution of the last name Demers

The last name Demers is primarily found in Canada, particularly in the province of Quebec. Quebec is known for its strong French heritage and it is here that the Demers surname has its strongest concentration. The name can be traced back to the early French settlers who arrived in the region during the 17th and 18th centuries. Over time, many Demers families have spread out across Canada, with significant populations found in other provinces like Ontario and Alberta. Furthermore, due to migration patterns, some individuals with the surname can be found in the United States, particularly in states bordering Canada such as New York, Vermont, and Maine. However, the majority of individuals with the last name Demers can still be found in Quebec, where the name has remained closely tied to the region's French-speaking population.

Variants and spellings of the last name Demers

The last name Demers has a few variations and spellings. One variation is Demeers, which can be seen as a phonetic spelling of the name. Another variation is Demaras, which might be a result of the name being misspelled or misread by record keepers over time. Other variations include Demaire, Demares, and Demairez, which could be influenced by different pronunciations or cultural backgrounds. Additionally, the name might have alternate spellings such as Demeersch, Demort, or D'Merce, which could have originated from different regions or due to personal preferences. These variations and spellings showcase the flexibility and adaptability of surnames, as they can change and evolve over generations and through different language and cultural influences.

Famous people with the last name Demers

One notable individual with the last name Demers is Jacques Demers, a well-known figure in the sports world. Born in 1944, Jacques Demers is a former professional ice hockey coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). He achieved immense success throughout his career, leading the Montreal Canadiens to win the Stanley Cup in 1993. Demers became beloved for his ability to motivate players and his deep knowledge of the game. He overcame several personal challenges and dyslexia to become one of the most respected coaches in NHL history. Jacques Demers has been honored for his contributions to hockey and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2010. His lasting impact on the sport and his inspiring personal journey have made him a significant figure in the world of hockey.

Genealogical research on the last name Demers

The surname "Demers" has its roots in France, particularly within the region of Poitou-Charentes. Derived from the Old French word "demoiselle," meaning "maiden" or "young lady," it was originally a nickname given to unmarried women or to men with a connection to such women. Over time, it transformed into a hereditary surname. In the 17th century, some individuals bearing the name immigrated to New France (present-day Canada) as part of the French colonization effort. They settled primarily in the province of Quebec, where the surname became established and thrived. Today, the Demers family can be found not only in Quebec but also in other parts of Canada and the United States. Genealogical research on the Demers surname involves tracing the lineage of individuals across generations, exploring immigration records, census data, church registers, and other historical documents to uncover connections between different branches of the family.