Last Name Morrow

Learn more about the origin of the last name Morrow

The meaning and origin of the last name Morrow

The surname Morrow is derived from the Middle English word "morwe," which means morning or early dawn. As such, it is an occupational name given to someone who worked in the morning or a name given to a child born at that time of day. The spelling variations of the surname include Morowe, Mora, and Morreau. The Morrow surname can be found primarily in Scotland and Ireland, where it is most common. Many Irish immigrants bearing the name Morrow settled in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio. Over time, the name has spread to other parts of the English-speaking world. Notable individuals with the Morrow surname include American actor and comedian Rob Morrow, as well as Canadian musician Dallas Green, who performs under the stage name City and Colour.

Geographical distribution of the last name Morrow

The last name Morrow is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the states of Texas, Pennsylvania, California, Ohio, and Florida. It is believed to have Scottish origins, stemming from the Gaelic word "mor" meaning "big" or "great." Many families with the surname Morrow can trace their ancestry back to Scottish immigrants who settled in these regions, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. The name may have also spread to other countries with significant Scottish immigration, such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. While it is less common in these countries compared to the United States, there are still pockets of Morrow families residing there. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Morrow reflects the historical migration patterns of Scottish immigrants, with the United States being the primary location of residence for individuals with this surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Morrow

The last name Morrow can have several variations and spellings which have evolved over time. Some common variations include Morrowe, Morow, and Morroe. These variations often emerged as a result of phonetic changes or regional accents. Additionally, the spelling of the last name may differ depending on the country or language. For instance, in Ireland, it may be spelled as O'Morrow or MacMorrow to indicate its Irish origin. In Scotland, the variation Muirhead is sometimes used, which likely emerged from a different Gaelic pronunciation. Furthermore, as individuals emigrated to different parts of the world, the spelling of Morrow may have been adapted to fit the norms of their new country. Consequently, variations such as Moro, Morreau, and Moroway may arise, reflecting the different linguistic influences and conventions of these regions. Overall, the variations and spellings of the last name Morrow illustrate the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can evolve through linguistic and cultural influences.

Famous people with the last name Morrow

There are several famous individuals with the last name Morrow who have achieved recognition in various fields. One notable figure is Anne Morrow Lindbergh (1906-2001), an American author and aviator. She gained international fame for her accomplishments as the wife of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh, and later as a writer, exploring topics such as women's roles, solitude, and simplicity in her works. Another renowned figure is Brandon Morrow, a former professional baseball pitcher who played for multiple teams in Major League Baseball. Morrow was known for his powerful fastball and impressive pitching skills, which earned him numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the top relievers in the league during his career. These individuals, although from different domains, have left a lasting impact on their respective fields and have become prominent figures in their own rights.

Genealogical research on the last name Morrow

The last name Morrow is of Scottish origin and has multiple possible origins. One theory suggests that it is derived from the Gaelic word "mor," meaning "great" or "large," and "bhuirgh," meaning "fortress" or "castle." This indicates that the name may have signified someone who lived near or was associated with a significant stronghold or fortress. Another possibility is that the name Morrow may come from the Middle English word "morrow," meaning "morning" or "daybreak." In this context, the name could have been a nickname for someone who was particularly early riser or had a cheerful disposition associated with the beginning of the day. Throughout history, individuals with the surname Morrow have been found in various regions, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the United States. Genealogical research on the Morrow family could reveal specific ancestral lines, migrations, and related branches of the family tree.