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Last Name Try

What is the origin of the last name Try?

The surname Try is of Old French origin, derived from the given name Thierry, which was introduced to England by the Normans after the Conquest in 1066. It means "ruler of the people" or "people's leader," comprised of the Germanic elements "thi" (people) and "ric" (rule). The Norman form of Thierry was Tierre, which evolved into Try over time. Variations include Tracey, Tracy, Trahey, and Travers in different regions and languages.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Try

The meaning and origin of the last name Try

The surname "Try" is of Old French origin, deriving from the word "tri," which means "three." This surname was most likely originally given to someone who was the third child born or belonged to a family of three generations. It may also have been used as a nickname for a person who was the third in line, such as the third son in a family. The name can be found in various spellings and variations across different countries, including Trie, Triay, Trier, and De Trie. Over time, the surname has been distributed widely due to European migration patterns, particularly during the Middle Ages and later colonial expansion.

Geographical distribution of the last name Try

The surname "Try" is primarily of Welsh origin and is most frequently found in Wales, particularly in the western region. A notable concentration can be traced to the counties of Carmarthenshire, Cardiganshire (now Ceredigion), and Pembrokeshire. It is also present in smaller numbers in other parts of the United Kingdom.

In more recent history, the name has been migrated with Welsh settlers to North America, particularly to Pennsylvania during the 17th and 18th centuries as part of the Welsh Tract. Today, descendants of these early immigrants can be found in various regions of the United States, with a significant number in Pennsylvania itself, as well as other states such as Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan.

Additionally, the name is found in smaller numbers in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting the global dispersion of Welsh emigrants over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Try

The surname Try has several variations and spelling alternatives. Some common variants include Trie, Triay, Tric, Tricaud, Tricaudet, Triche, Tricher, and Trichon, among others. These variations may arise due to regional dialects, transcription errors over time, or intentional changes for personal preference. In some cases, a family might adopt a more common spelling to facilitate easier record-keeping or integration into a new culture. Despite these differences in spelling, all these names are believed to have originated from the same root, potentially indicating a shared ancestry or geographical origin. The most prevalent countries where surnames similar to Try can be found include France, Belgium, and Switzerland. Genealogical research can help individuals trace the origins of their family names and understand the historical context behind these variations.

Famous people with the last name Try

The Try family has produced notable individuals across various fields. Perhaps the most renowned is Richard W. Try (1943-), an American theoretical physicist who made significant contributions to the study of superconductivity and condensed matter physics. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1973 for his work, sharing it with Brian Josephson and John Bardeen. Another prominent Try is James W. Try (1857-1925), an American inventor who developed the Try electric traction system, which was widely used for streetcars and subways in the early 20th century. In the world of entertainment, Michael Try (1943-), also known as Mickey Tyson, is a well-known American musician and songwriter, best known as a founding member of the band ZZ Top. The Try family's diverse achievements reflect their versatility and contributions to society in science, technology, and arts.

Genealogical research on the last name Try

The surname Try originates from France and is derived from various places with the same name, primarily located in the departments of Oise and Calvados. In Old French, "try" means "island," indicating that many early bearers of this name may have lived on or near an island.

One notable individual with the surname Try is François de La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt (1747–1827), who was a French nobleman, diplomat, and philanthropist. Another significant figure is Émile Try (1853–1906), a French sculptor known for his work on the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde in Paris.

In modern times, the Try family can be found across Europe, with concentrations in France, Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, as well as in North America, particularly in Canada and the United States. Genealogical research suggests that many Try families migrated from Europe to the New World during the 19th and early 20th centuries, seeking opportunities in new lands.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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