Gordon Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Gordon come from? What does the surname Gordon mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Gordon and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Gordan, Gordin
Surname Gordon Origin: What does the last name Gordon mean?
Gordon is a surname with multiple origins, particularly Scottish. It may be derived from locations like Gordon in Berwickshire or a similarly named place in Normandy. The English surname Gordon traces back to Gourdon in France, originating from the Gallo-Roman personal name Gordus. In Ireland, the surname Gordon has roots in Scottish migration during the 17th century, with variations like de Górdún. Additionally, it can stem from the Irish Mag Mhuirneacháin, meaning "beloved," or Mórbhoirneach. Jewish Gordons likely come from Grodno, Belarus, unrelated to the British lineage.
YourRoots data shows that the Gordon surname has been present in Scotland since the 12th century, with notable records in the United States by the 17th century. The name spread globally in subsequent centuries, with significant populations in the US and the UK. Today, Gordons can be found in various countries worldwide, reflecting a diverse and widespread heritage that transcends borders and cultures.
Gordon Last Name History: Where did the last name Gordon come from?
Origin of Gordon Surname: Where does the last name Gordon originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Gordon first appeared in records from Scotland (United Kingdom) around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Gordon” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Gordon: What does the Gordon surname history look like in the early days?
The “Gordon” surname remained closely associated with Scotland (United Kingdom) from the 12th through the 16th century, marking a significant volume of records. YourRoots data also shows Gordon family records in countries such as the United States, indicating the beginning of its global spread.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Gordon surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Gordon surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had surpassed Scotland (United Kingdom), a trend that continued into the 19th century. The “Gordon” surname remains prominent in the United States and other regions worldwide. Although the specific countries aren't mentioned in the provided data, it can be inferred that the surname has spread across many countries, maintaining its highest presence in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Explore Gordon last name heritage and Gordon surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Gordon Surame?
Molly Gordon
Molly Gordon (born 1995 or 1996) is an American actress, screenwriter, and director known for her roles in popular TV series Animal Kingdom and comedy films like Life of the Party and Booksmart. She co-directed and starred in the musical comedy film Theater Camp and has appeared in The Bear.
Kiowa Gordon
Kiowa Joseph Gordon (born Mar 25, 1990) is a Native American actor known for his role as Embry Call in The Twilight Saga. He also played Jim Chee in the AMC series Dark Winds. Gordon has Hualapai heritage and is a citizen of the Hualapai Tribe of Northern Arizona.
Gordon's career began when he was approached by Twilight author Stephenie Meyer at church. He later landed the role of Jacob Black's best friend in the Twilight films. Besides acting, Gordon was also a member of a progressive metal band called Touché.
Zachary Gordon
Zachary Adam Gordon (Feb 15, 1998 -) is an American actor best known for his role as Greg Heffley in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid film series. He has also appeared in other films like "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" and TV shows like "Bubble Guppies."
Ruth Gordon
Ruth Gordon Jones (Oct 30, 1896 - Aug 28, 1985) was an American actress, playwright, and screenwriter known for her distinctive personality and roles in films like "Harold and Maude" and "Rosemary's Baby." She won an Academy Award and two Golden Globe Awards for her acting.
Eve Gordon
Eve Bennett-Gordon is an American actress known for her roles in TV shows like A Woman Named Jackie, Felicity, and movies such as Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves. She has also graced the stage in various cities worldwide, working with acclaimed directors and actors.
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