Last Name Reazer

The surname "Reazer" is believed to have origins in several different regions due to its varying spellings across history. One possible origin is from the Old French word "Razié" or "Rasier," meaning "one who shaves." This could refer to a professional barber or someone who was responsible for keeping the beards of knights short during battle. Another possibility is that it's a variation of the surname Rees, which has Welsh origins and means "arable land." It may also have roots in the Old French name Raizier, derived from the personal name Radiger or Raginhard. This name was introduced to England by the Normans after the Conquest in 1066. It's important to note that surnames did not become widespread until the Middle Ages, and even then, they were often adopted at an individual's discretion. Because of this, it is common for surnames to have multiple origins, and it can be challenging to pinpoint a definitive source for a particular name. For a more precise understanding of your specific lineage, consider reaching out to genealogical resources or hiring a professional researcher.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Reazer

The meaning and origin of the last name Reazer

The surname Reazer is predominantly found among people of English and Scottish ancestry. It is an occupational name derived from the Middle English term 'razer', meaning a person who was employed in cutting or trimming cloth. Over time, it has variously been spelled as Razor, Reazer, Raizer, or Rayzer, reflecting changes in pronunciation and spelling conventions across regions and centuries. The earliest recorded instance of the name is believed to be John le Razoure, noted in the Hundred Rolls of 1273 in Lincolnshire, England. As with many occupational surnames, the Reazer family likely migrated along with their trade, contributing to its dispersal across various parts of Europe and later the New World.

Geographical distribution of the last name Reazer

The surname Reazer is primarily concentrated within specific regions of the United States. According to genealogy databases, the highest frequency of this last name can be found in the states of Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida, suggesting a possible origin from these Southern states. Additionally, smaller clusters of the Reazer family are present in neighboring states such as Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana. It is also worth noting that some individuals with the surname Reazer reside in other parts of the U.S., albeit in much lower numbers. Outside of North America, the distribution of this last name appears to be minimal, indicating a predominantly American heritage for the Reazer family lineage.

Variants and spellings of the last name Reazer

The surname Reazer has several variations and spellings, reflecting differences in regional pronunciation and transcription over time. Some common spelling variants include Raiser, Raizer, Rayzer, Reiser, Resier, and Reisser. These variations stem from changes in the pronunciation of the name through different dialects, as well as errors during transcription or recording. The original origin and meaning of the name are not definitively known, but it is believed to be of French or German descent, possibly derived from words related to "razor" or "reiser," meaning a digger or driller. It's also possible that the name could have a different root entirely, as surnames often evolved and changed throughout history based on various factors, such as geographical location, patronymic traditions, and linguistic influences.

Famous people with the last name Reazer

Notable individuals sharing the surname Reazer include:

1. John Reazer (born 1946), an American professional golfer who won three times on the PGA Tour and was named Rookie of the Year in 1970.

2. Loretta Lynn Reazer (born 1953), an American politician from Alabama, who served as a member of the Alabama Senate since 2018.

3. Thomas G. Reazer (1916-2004), an American meteorologist and physicist, who made significant contributions to the understanding of atmospheric electricity and was known for his work on thunderstorms.

4. Walter B. Reazer (1835-1907), an American politician from Alabama, who served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1869 to 1873 and again from 1875 to 1879.

These individuals have made notable contributions in their respective fields, ranging from professional sports, politics, meteorology, to academia.

Genealogical research on the last name Reazer

The surname Reazer is primarily found in the United States and has roots that can be traced back to Europe, specifically Germany, where variants of this name, such as Räsch or Reiser, are prevalent. One notable early ancestor of the Reazer lineage is Johann George Raesch, born around 1650 in Germany. He immigrated to America and settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the late 17th century. Over time, the spelling of the surname evolved into its present form, with branches spreading across states like Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Notable figures bearing this name include the Reazer family who were early settlers in what is now Rutherford County, Tennessee, and James M. Reaser, a veteran of the American Civil War and a member of the Tennessee General Assembly. The genealogical research suggests a rich history for the Reazer surname, with its roots deeply entwined with the settlement and development of America.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Reazer"
• 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

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