Last Name Reese

The surname "Reese" has its origin in Wales. It is derived from the Welsh personal name "Rhys" or "Rees," which means "enthusiasm" or "ardor." The name was originally a patronymic, meaning it indicated the son of Rhys or Rees. Over time, it developed into a hereditary surname and spread to other countries through migration and settlement. The spelling variations include Rees, Rhys, Reece, and Reese, among others.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Reese

The surname Reese has German and Welsh origins. In German, it is derived from the given name Erasmus, which means "to love." It was a popular name among early Christians and was later passed down as a surname. In Welsh, Reese is a variant of the surname Rhys, which comes from the Old Welsh name Ris, meaning "enthusiasm" or "ardent." The name Rhys itself has ancient Celtic roots and has been an influential name in Welsh history and culture. Over time, many Welsh families anglicized their names, leading to the variant Reese. The Reese surname has spread beyond Germany and Wales, with immigrants bringing the name to other countries over the centuries. Today, people with the surname Reese may find their ancestry rooted in either the German or Welsh heritage, depending on their specific family history.

Geographical distribution of the last name Reese

The last name Reese has a varied geographical distribution. It is primarily found in the English-speaking countries of the United States, England, and Wales. In the United States, Reese is most common in the states of Pennsylvania, Texas, and California, with significant populations also in Ohio, Florida, and New York. This distribution partly reflects the historical migration patterns of European settlers. In England and Wales, Reese is particularly concentrated in the western regions, including the counties of Gloucestershire and Cornwall. Additionally, smaller numbers of individuals with the last name Reese can be found in Canada, Australia, and Germany. The dispersion of the surname can also be influenced by factors such as historical events, migration, and cultural exchange. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Reese reflects its origins as a patronymic surname and the subsequent dispersal of individuals with this name across various regions over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Reese

The last name Reese has a few variations and spellings, reflecting the diversity of its origins. One common variation is Rees, which drops the final "e" but retains the same pronunciation. Another spelling variation is Rhys, which is more commonly seen in Wales, where the name has its roots. Rhys, pronounced as "rees," represents the original Welsh form of the surname. Reis is yet another derivative, which can be found in certain Portuguese, German, and Jewish communities. Alternative spellings of the name may also include Ries, Reece, and even Rice, as family names can be influenced by regional dialects, immigration patterns, and individual preferences. Despite these variations and spellings, the fundamental sound and historical connections associated with the last name Reese remain consistent, making it a recognizable and distinct family name in various cultures.

Famous people with the last name Reese

One of the famous individuals with the last name Reese is Della Reese. She was an accomplished American singer and actress, gaining popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. Reese released numerous successful albums and even secured several chart-topping hits throughout her career. But she was not limited to the music world - Reese also made her mark in television. She starred in the popular TV series "Touched by an Angel," which aired for almost a decade. Her powerful singing voice and charismatic presence made her an iconic figure in the entertainment industry. Another notable figure is J.R. Reese, a highly regarded African-American entrepreneur and philanthropist. Reese founded several successful companies, contributing greatly to the business world. Known for his strategic thinking and innovative ideas, J.R. Reese became an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and future generations.

Genealogical research on the last name Reese

The last name Reese is an interesting one when it comes to genealogical research. It has its roots in Wales, where it was derived from the personal name "Rhys," which means "ardent" or "fiery." From Wales, the Reese name spread to England and eventually to America through immigration. In America, the name Reese has been found in various regions, with significant concentrations in Pennsylvania and Ohio. Tracing the lineage of the Reese family can lead to discovering a diverse range of occupations and professions among its members, including farmers, business owners, and professionals in fields such as law and medicine. Additionally, the Reese family has displayed a strong sense of familial ties and has often passed down traditional values and customs. Today, the name Reese continues to thrive and is found in different communities across the United States, highlighting the enduring legacy of this family surname.

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