Last Name Preece

Learn more about the origin of the last name Preece

The meaning and origin of the last name Preece

The surname Preece is of English origin and is derived from the medieval personal name Price or Piers, which itself is a variant of the name Peter. The name Peter comes from the Greek word "petros," meaning "rock" or "stone." Over time, the name Price/ Preece became a hereditary surname and was particularly common in Wales and the border regions of England. The Preece surname can be found documented in various forms throughout history, including Prece, Prease, Prys, and others. It is often associated with individuals from farming or rural backgrounds, as agriculture was a significant part of life in medieval England and Wales. The name may have also been associated with a person who lived in an area known for the presence of stones or rocks. As with many surnames, variations and different spellings have emerged over time, often due to changes in local dialects or misinterpretations during the recording of names in census records or other historical documents.

Geographical distribution of the last name Preece

The last name Preece is predominantly found in the United Kingdom, with a concentration in the country of Wales. Historically, the name is associated with Welsh origins, particularly in the southern regions such as Glamorgan, Monmouthshire, and Brecknockshire. However, Preece can be found scattered throughout England as well, particularly in the southwestern counties of Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. The surname is relatively rare and does not have a significant presence outside of the United Kingdom. It is worth noting that with the ease of globalization and migration, individuals with the last name Preece may have relocated to other parts of the world, leading to a small diaspora. Nonetheless, the primary geographical distribution remains centered in the United Kingdom, particularly in Wales and its neighboring English counties.

Variants and spellings of the last name Preece

The last name Preece can be found in many different variations and spellings. One common variation is "Prece," where the double "e" at the end is replaced with a single "e." Another variation is "Preese," where the "c" is replaced with an "s." Similarly, "Prees" is another common spelling, where the double "e" is changed to a single "e" and the "c" is replaced with an "s." Other less common variations include "Prese," "Prise," and "Priese." These variations and spellings may have evolved over time or due to regional and cultural influences. It is also not uncommon for surnames to have different spellings depending on where the family originated from or migrated to. Despite the different spellings, all these variations ultimately represent the same last name, Preece.

Famous people with the last name Preece

I apologize, but I couldn't find any famous people with the last name Preece. It's possible that there may be individuals with this surname who have achieved success in various fields, but their fame might not have reached a level where they are widely recognized or documented. Additionally, it's important to remember that famous individuals can vary in different regions and domains, and their fame can be subjective. If there are any specific individuals you are referring to or if you have any additional information, please let me know, and I'll be happy to assist you further.

Genealogical research on the last name Preece

The surname Preece is an English patronymic name, derived from the given name Piers or Peter, which in turn originated from the Greek name Petros, meaning "rock." The name Preece is mainly found in Wales and the bordering counties of Herefordshire and Shropshire in England. Researching the genealogy of the Preece name reveals a rich history that goes back centuries. Many early records of the Preece family can be found in ecclesiastical documents, parish registers, and wills, highlighting their involvement in the local communities over generations. The Preece name has witnessed various spelling variations over time, including Price, Prise, Prue, and Priss. Numerous Preece families moved to other parts of the British Isles and even further afield to America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, possibly due to economic or sociopolitical reasons. Today, descendants of the Preece name can be found across the globe, united by their shared ancestral heritage.