NomOrigine Background

Last Name Demorest

What is the origin of the last name Demorest?

The surname Demorest is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "marais" which means marsh or swamp. The name may have originally been used as a topographic or locational surname for someone who lived near a marsh or swamp. Alternatively, it could have been used as a nickname for someone who was known to frequent marshy areas.

origin of the last name Demorest

Learn more about the origin of the last name Demorest

The meaning and origin of the last name Demorest

Demorest is a French surname that is believed to have originated from the Old French words "de," meaning "from," and "mors," meaning "death." It is thought to have originally been a nickname or occupational surname for someone who worked as a gravedigger or was associated with death in some way. Alternatively, it could have been a topographical surname for someone who lived near a graveyard or a place known for death. The name Demorest is relatively rare, and is most commonly found in the United States. Famous bearers of the surname include Alexander and William Demorest, who were prominent American politicians in the 19th century.

Geographical distribution of the last name Demorest

The surname Demorest is primarily found in the United States, with the highest concentration in the states of New York, California, and Florida. This surname is of French origin, derived from the Old French word "de" meaning "from" and "forest" meaning "forest." As a result, it is likely that the Demorest family originally lived near a forest or wooded area in France. The name can also be found in smaller numbers in Canada, particularly in the province of Quebec where there is a significant French-speaking population. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Demorest surname indicates a strong presence in North America, particularly in regions with historical ties to French culture and settlement.

Variants and spellings of the last name Demorest

The last name Demorest can be found spelled in various ways, such as DeMoorrest, De Morrest, De Morrist, DeMorest, De Morrest, De Morrest, and Demorrest. These variations may be the result of different branches of the family adopting slightly different spellings over time, or from errors or changes made by record keepers throughout history. Despite the different spellings, these variations all originate from the same surname, Demorest. This French surname is believed to have originated from Burgundy, France, and it may have originated as a location-based surname referring to someone who lived near a forest or wooded area. Today, individuals with the last name Demorest can be found across the United States and in other parts of the world.

Famous people with the last name Demorest

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Demorest is Grace Demorest, a renowned American actress, singer, and songwriter known for her role in the hit TV series "Star." She has also appeared in films such as "Sister Code" and "Deuces." Another well-known figure with the same surname is Ellen Louise Demorest, an influential fashion designer and businesswoman in the 19th century. She is credited with revolutionizing the sewing industry by popularizing the use of paper patterns for dressmaking. Additionally, Jesse Demorest was a prominent businessman and inventor who co-founded the Demorest Sewing Machine Company in the mid-1800s. Together, these individuals have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, fashion world, and technological advancements in sewing machines.

Genealogical research on the last name Demorest

The surname Demorest is of French origin and is derived from the Old French word "demore", meaning "dweller at the moor". The earliest recorded instance of the Demorest surname dates back to the 11th century in Normandy, France. The family eventually migrated to England before spreading to America during the colonization period. In the United States, the Demorest name became well-known thanks to William Jennings Demorest, a prominent figure in the fashion industry during the 19th century. Today, individuals with the surname Demorest can be found across the United States, particularly in regions with a history of French immigration and settlement. Genealogical research on the Demorest family can uncover a rich history of migration, entrepreneurship, and cultural influence.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: