Surname Farrier - Meaning and Origin
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Farrier: What does the surname Farrier mean?
The last name Farrier is of English origin and is an occupational name for a farrier. Farriers are individuals who are experts in the shoeing of horses. They are trained to recognise and treat lameness, hoof and lower limb problems in horses. It is a name which dates back to the Middle Ages when such skills were highly sought after.
A farrier's job is to shape and attach metal shoes to the horse's hooves, a process which requires great expertise and experience. They are also responsible for inspecting and trimming the horse's hooves. At times, a farrier may need to trim the hooves to improve the horse's balance or to improve its movement.
In the past, Farriers had to forge their own tools as well as the horseshoes using a forge and an anvil. This was a painstakingly slow process, and the end result had to be flawless, as any flaws that were present could seriously damage the horse's feet.
In recent times, the job of a Farrier has become much more specialised, and Farriers are often sought for therapeutic shoeing. This requires the Farrier to use the latest scientific and technological advancements to improve the horse's gait and wellbeing. Not only is a Farrier responsible for the physical condition of a horse, but they are also known as an important figure in the horse industry, providing specialist advice to owners and trainers.
The Last name Farrier is a testament to the distinguished craftsmanship of these skillful individuals. It is a reminder of the hard work and dedication of those who have perfected the craft of horseshoeing throughout the centuries, and of the Farriers who continue to provide their services today.
Order DNA origin analysisFarrier: Where does the name Farrier come from?
The last name Farrier is most common today in the United Kingdom. According to the UK's Office of National Statistics, as of 2018 Farrier was the 833rd most popular surname. It is most commonly found in Lancashire, which is located in the northwest of England, followed by other counties around greater Manchester. It is also found in other areas around the United Kingdom including Scotland, Northern Ireland, and East Anglia.
Farriers were originally those who attended and cared for horses, such as the horse-MPH heath, but eventually the term became a hereditary surname in England, Scotland, and Wales. The name essentially originated with occupational titles that eventually became solidified as direct family names. Over time, the Last name Farrier has become more popular among other countries including the United States, Canada, and Australia, but is still most prominent in the British Isles.
Those who lay claim to the surname Farrier may have many different backgrounds, as the surname has been made up of individuals from a variety of nationalities throughout the years. Today, the Farrier family is a combination of the native English, Scottish, Welsh, Irish, French, and even Greek populations.
Variations of the surname Farrier
The surname Farrier has several variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. The earliest written records of the surname dates back to the 13th century in the UK.
The variants of the Farrier surname include Farrar, Ferrer, Ferrere, Ferer, Farrer, Farrour, Frazier, and Faries. All of these variants of the surname are rooted in the French word “ferrier” which translates to “smith” or “blacksmith.”
The spelling of the surname can also vary, including Farrier, Farrier, Farrar, and Fearrer. These spelling variations are usually attributed to English translations of French surnames.
There are also surnames of the same origin as Farrier. These include Ferrier, Ferraro, Ferrarini, Fariello, Ferraioli, Ferriello, and Ferrera. These are Italian variations of the Farrier surname, tracing to Italian blacksmiths who settled in the country centuries ago.
Ultimately, the Farrier surname has a long and varied history. Variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin all trace back to the English and French translations of a blacksmith or “ferrier.”
Famous people with the name Farrier
- David Farrier: New Zealand journalist and television presenter.
- Stacey Farber: Canadian actress best known for her role as Ellie Nash in Degrassi: The Next Generation.
- Gillian Farrer: British model who became one of the most sought after fashion icons in the mid-1960s.
- Garrett Farrier: American javelin thrower and five-time American record holder.
- Stephen Farrier: British soldier who served in the Boer War and was the recipient of the Victoria Cross.
- Tom Farrier: American Major League Baseball pitcher.
- Emma Farrer: Australian mountaineering guide who made history as the first woman to climb Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen.
- Meg Farrer: American actress, author and artist, best known for her roles in the film Nell and the television series Fringe.
- Janine Farrier: Canadian actress, best known for her portrayal of Sally Turner in the television series High Stakes.
- Sean Farrer: Canadian sculptor who has been commissioned to create public artwork in multiple cities in Canada and the United States.