Last Name Oury

Learn more about the origin of the last name Oury

The meaning and origin of the last name Oury

The surname Oury is of French origin and is derived from the Old French personal name Oury, which was a variant of the name Urien. The name Urien itself is of Welsh origin and is believed to mean "privileged birth" or "noble birth." The surname Oury could have originated as a nickname or as a patronymic surname, denoting descent from someone named Oury or Urien. Over time, the surname Oury has likely evolved and been passed down through generations, with variations in spelling and pronunciation. Today, individuals with the surname Oury can be found across the world, particularly in French-speaking countries and regions with historical connections to France.

Geographical distribution of the last name Oury

The surname Oury is relatively rare and mainly found in the United States, particularly in the states of Louisiana, Texas, and California. It is also present in France, where it is most commonly found in the Alsace region. Additionally, the name can be found in smaller numbers in other countries such as Canada, Germany, and Australia. The historical origin of the Oury surname is likely French, stemming from the Old French word "oree" meaning "edge" or "boundary," suggesting that the name may have originally been used to describe someone who lived near a border or boundary. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Oury surname is dispersed, but it remains most concentrated in the United States and France.

Variants and spellings of the last name Oury

The last name Oury can be spelled in various ways including Ourey, Ourye, Ouree, Owry, and Ourry. These variations may have originated from different regions or countries where the name has been passed down through generations. It is common for surnames to evolve in spelling over time due to factors such as migration, changing languages, and variations in pronunciation. Despite the different spellings, the surname Oury likely has the same meaning and historical significance for those who carry it. Family members may have different preferences for how the name is spelled or may choose to use a specific variation based on tradition or personal preference. Regardless of the spelling, the name Oury represents a shared familial lineage and history for those who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Oury

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Oury is David Oury, a prominent American attorney and politician who served as the Attorney General of Kansas in the late 1800s. He was known for his progressive views and tireless advocacy for civil rights. Another well-known figure with the last name Oury is Rick Oury, a successful Hollywood stunt coordinator and second unit director who has worked on numerous blockbuster films, including "The Dark Knight" and "Inception." His innovative approach to stunt work and dedication to safety have earned him a stellar reputation in the industry. Overall, the Oury surname is associated with individuals who have made significant contributions to law, politics, and the entertainment world.

Genealogical research on the last name Oury

The surname Oury is of French origin and has multiple possible derivations. One possible origin is from the Old French word "ovier" or "ouvrier," meaning worker or laborer, suggesting that the name may have originally been a occupational surname used to identify those involved in manual labor. Another possible origin is from the Norman-French name "Auriol," derived from the Latin personal name "Aurelius," meaning golden. This suggests that the bearers of the surname may have been descendants of someone named Aurelius or Auriol. Over time, the surname Oury has spread across different countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as individuals bearing this name may have migrated or emigrated in search of better opportunities or escaping conflicts. Research on specific individuals or family branches with the last name Oury may help uncover more details about their genealogy and origin.