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Last Name Vorse

What is the origin of the last name Vorse?

The surname Vorse is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Fors," meaning "fierce" or "bold," and was typically used as a nickname for someone who displayed these qualities. Over time, this name evolved into the surname Vorse.

origin of the last name Vorse

Learn more about the origin of the last name Vorse

The meaning and origin of the last name Vorse

The surname Vorse is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "vor," meaning "before" or "in front of," and the suffix "-se," which was commonly added to words to indicate a place. Therefore, Vorse likely originated as a topographic or locational surname to describe someone who lived in front of a prominent feature such as a hill or a forest. Alternatively, it could have been used to indicate someone who lived in a specific place with the name "Vor" in England. Over time, the spelling of the surname may have evolved to its current form, Vorse. Today, individuals with the surname Vorse can be found primarily in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada.

Geographical distribution of the last name Vorse

The last name Vorse is most commonly found in the United States, specifically in the states of New York, California, and Massachusetts. It is also present in Canada, particularly in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. In addition, there are some individuals with the surname Vorse in the United Kingdom, specifically in England and Scotland. The name has a more scattered distribution in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, with a small number of individuals bearing the surname Vorse in various regions. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Vorse indicates a concentration in North America, particularly in the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Vorse

The last name "Vorse" can be spelled in different ways, including "Vors", "Vorsa", "Vorze", and "Vorss". These variations may have originated from different regions or languages, leading to the adaptation of the surname over time. The spelling of surnames can also be influenced by factors such as phonetics, dialects, or the preferences of individuals within a family. Regardless of the spelling variation, the surname "Vorse" likely maintains its meaning and historical significance within the family or community it represents.

Famous people with the last name Vorse

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Vorse include Mary Heaton Vorse, an American journalist and labor activist known for her work covering topics such as women's suffrage and workers' rights. Another notable figure is Newton Vorse, an American photographer who documented the lives of workers and immigrants during the early 20th century. Additionally, Jon Vorse is a well-known economist and author who has published influential works on economic theory and policy. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on society through their work and activism.

Genealogical research on the last name Vorse

The surname Vorse is of English origin and is believed to be a variant of the surname Voss, which is derived from the Old English word "fors," meaning "waterfall" or "rapid." The Vorse family history can be traced back to early records in England, particularly in the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Immigrants with the surname Vorse settled in the United States in the 19th century, primarily in states such as New York, Massachusetts, and Maine. Some notable individuals with the last name Vorse include American author Mary Heaton Vorse and her son, journalist and labor historian Heywood Broun Vorse. The Vorse family crest features a shield with an eagle displayed, symbolizing strength and courage.

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