Last Name Mory

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mory

The meaning and origin of the last name Mory

The surname Mory is of French origin, primarily found in the regions of Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy. It is derived from the Old French word "morie" or "morée," meaning "muddy" or "marshy." Over time, this occupational name could have been given to someone who lived near a marshy area, or worked in such an environment, perhaps as a farmer or fisherman. As with many surnames, the spelling and pronunciation can vary due to historical factors like migration, linguistic changes, and recording errors. The name Mory is also found in other European countries, where it may have different meanings or origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mory

The surname Mory has a notable presence primarily in France, with significant concentrations in regions such as Brittany and Normandy, reflecting its probable Breton or Norman origin. Smaller clusters can also be found in other French departments including Mayenne, Orne, Manche, and Calvados. Beyond France, individuals with the surname Mory can be found in various countries, notably Belgium, Canada (especially Quebec), Switzerland, and the United States. In these countries, the distribution tends to be scattered rather than clustered, suggesting dispersal through migration or assimilation. The rarity of the name outside of France, Belgium, and Quebec implies a predominantly French-speaking diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mory

The surname Mory has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in pronunciation and regional dialects. Some common variations include Morier, Morey, Mori, and Mourie, each with their unique origins and historical backgrounds. Additionally, there may be minor spelling changes resulting from transliterations or typographical errors over time. However, it is essential to note that the correct spelling of a name can vary depending on personal preference, cultural norms, or historical context. Therefore, while Mory is the most common spelling in English, it is always important to consider other possible variations when researching family history or genealogy.

Famous people with the last name Mory

Notable individuals sharing the surname Mory include:

1. Tierno Monénembo (born 1942), Guinean writer and journalist who won the prestigious Prix Goncourt de la Fiction Africaine in 1985 for his novel "Beky" ("The Walls of Salt").

2. Régis Mory (born 1967), a French professional footballer who played as a defender and was part of the France team that won the FIFA World Cup in 1998.

3. Paul-Émile Mory (1875–1946), a French art historian, archaeologist, and curator of Egyptian antiquities at the Louvre Museum from 1908 until his retirement in 1942. He made significant contributions to the study of ancient Egypt.

4. Jean-Baptiste Mory (born 1965), a French journalist and writer known for his work on human rights, particularly in Africa. He has been awarded several prestigious journalism prizes for his reports from conflict zones.

These individuals have made notable contributions to their respective fields, demonstrating the diverse achievements of people bearing the surname Mory.

Genealogical research on the last name Mory

The surname Mory, variants include Moris, Morey, and others, has roots traced primarily to France and Belgium. Originating from the Old French 'Mori' or 'Moree', meaning 'moor', this name was often given to people living near a grove or wood, indicating that the original bearer lived by a wooded area inhabited by moors or dark-skinned people during medieval times. The earliest known record of the name Mory dates back to 1248 in Normandy, France, with records of the family spreading across France and Flanders throughout the Middle Ages. Notable bearers of this surname include Guillaume Mory (died 1569), a French Calvinist theologian, and Jean Baptiste Moris (1768-1840), a Belgian politician and lawyer. The name has since spread globally due to migration waves, particularly during the Huguenot expulsion from France in the late 17th century.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Mory"
• 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 : 11 June 2025