Last Name Jervis

Learn more about the origin of the last name Jervis

The meaning and origin of the last name Jervis

The surname Jervis is of English origin, derived from the Old French personal name Gervais, ultimately of Germanic origin, meaning "spear" and "power." The name was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066, and was first recorded as Jervis or Gervase in medieval documents. The name eventually evolved into various spellings including Jarvis and Jervis. The surname Jervis was commonly found in the Midlands and northern England regions, particularly in counties such as Yorkshire and Staffordshire. Over time, the name spread to other English-speaking regions, including the United States, where it continues to be found today. The Jervis surname may have been originally given to someone who was known for their prowess in battle or for their leadership qualities. Today, individuals with the surname Jervis can trace their ancestry back to these medieval origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Jervis

The last name Jervis is mainly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Wales. It is most prevalent in counties such as Staffordshire, Shropshire, and Yorkshire. There is also a significant population of individuals with the surname Jervis in the United States, with concentrations in states like Texas, California, and New York. In addition, there are smaller clusters of Jervis families in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The name Jervis has English origins, derived from the personal name Gervase, which means "spear servant." The distribution of the surname Jervis reflects the historical movements of people from the United Kingdom to other parts of the world, as well as patterns of migration and settlement within these countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Jervis

Variations and spellings of the last name Jervis include Jarvis, Jervies, Jervice, Jervys, and Jerviss. These variations may have originated from different regions or through different anglicizations of the name over time. The surname Jervis is believed to have English origins, deriving from the personal name Gervase, meaning "spear-friend." It is possible that different branches of the family may have adopted slightly altered spellings of the name for various reasons, such as migration, dialectical differences, or simply personal preference. Regardless of the spelling or variation, individuals with the last name Jervis can likely trace their ancestry back to a common origin and share a rich history and heritage with their family members.

Famous people with the last name Jervis

Cyril Jervis was a British actor known for his roles in several classic films such as "The Third Man" and "Kind Hearts and Coronets." His talent and versatility as an actor earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Additionally, Karen Jervis is a prominent fashion designer who has dressed many celebrities for red carpet events and award shows. Her innovative designs and keen sense of style have set her apart in the competitive world of fashion. Lastly, David Jervis is a respected journalist and author who has written extensively on politics and current events. His insightful commentary and in-depth analysis have made him a trusted source of information for many readers. Together, these famous individuals with the last name Jervis have made lasting contributions to the worlds of entertainment, fashion, and journalism.

Genealogical research on the last name Jervis

The surname Jervis is of English origin and is derived from the personal name Gervase, which in turn originated from the old German name Gervasius. The name can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period and was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The Jervis family has a long history in England, with records showing them residing in various counties across the country over the centuries. They were often landowners and farmers, with some members of the family holding positions of prominence in their communities. The name spread to other countries, including the United States, where descendants of the Jervis family immigrated and settled. Today, the Jervis surname continues to be passed down through generations, with many individuals interested in researching their genealogy and learning more about their family's roots.