Gregory Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Gregory come from? What does the surname Gregory mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Gregory and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Gregory Origin: What does the last name Gregory mean?
The surname Gregory is of English, Scottish, and Slovenian origin, with variants such as McGregor, MacGregor, Gregor, and more. YourRoots data indicates that the surname Gregory first appeared in records from the United Kingdom in the early 13th century. Over the centuries, the Gregory surname has spread globally, with notable concentrations in Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Hampshire, Lancashire, Cheshire, and Yorkshire in England, as well as Lanarkshire, Angus, Aberdeenshire, and other regions in Scotland.
By the 17th century, the volume of Gregory family records had significantly increased in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom. Today, the Gregory surname is prominent in the United States, the United Kingdom, and various other regions worldwide. The surname Gregory reflects a diverse heritage and presence in different countries, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution.
Gregory Last Name History: Where did the last name Gregory come from?
Origin of Gregory Surname: Where does the last name Gregory originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Gregory first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 13th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Gregory” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Gregory: What does the Gregory surname history look like in the early days?
The "Gregory" surname stayed largely linked to the United Kingdom from the 13th through the 15th century, according to YourRoots data. By the 16th century, there was a notable increase in the volume of Gregory family records in the United States, indicating the beginning of its global spread.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Gregory surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Gregory surname had grown significantly in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the “Gregory” surname is prominent in both the United States and the United Kingdom, and appears in many other regions worldwide.
Explore Gregory last name heritage and Gregory surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Gregory Surame?
Dick Gregory
Richard Claxton Gregory (Oct 12, 1932 – Aug 19, 2017) was an American comedian, actor, writer, activist, and social critic. He rose to fame in the 1960s with his bold comedy tackling racism and injustice. Gregory was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, using his platform to advocate for change. He also authored bestselling books and was known for his political activism, including protests against the Vietnam War. Gregory's legacy as a trailblazer in comedy and social commentary lives on, inspiring generations to speak out against inequality and stand up for justice.
Wilton Daniel Gregory
Wilton Daniel Gregory (December 7, 1947 - Present) is an influential American Catholic prelate who made history as the first African-American Cardinal appointed by Pope Francis in 2020. He has served in various leadership roles within the Catholic Church, including as Archbishop of Washington and President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Gregory is known for his efforts in addressing the sexual abuse scandal within the Church and advocating for the protection of children and young people. His dedication to his faith and commitment to social issues have made him a respected figure in the Catholic community.
Benji Gregory
Benjamin Gregory Hertzberg (known professionally as Benji Gregory) was an American child actor and voice artist, born on May 26, 1978. He is best known for his role as Brian Tanner on the NBC sitcom ALF from 1986 to 1990. Gregory appeared in various TV shows and films such as "Punky Brewster," "Fantastic Max," and "Jumpin' Jack Flash." After his acting career, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an aerographer's mate. Sadly, Gregory passed away on June 13, 2024, at the age of 46. His death was ruled accidental, caused by hepatic cirrhosis and heat exposure.
Philippa Gregory
Philippa Gregory (January 9, 1954 - ) is a renowned English historical novelist known for her captivating works set in various historical periods, with a focus on the Tudor era. Her most famous novel, "The Other Boleyn Girl," has received critical acclaim and even inspired film adaptations. Gregory's detailed storytelling and vivid characters have earned her the title of "the queen of British historical fiction." With a background in history and a Ph.D. in 18th-century literature, she brings a unique perspective to her writing, making her a beloved figure in the world of historical fiction.
André Gregory
André William Gregory (May 11, 1934) is a French-born American theatre director, writer, and actor. Best known for co-writing and starring in My Dinner with Andre, Gregory studied acting at The Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City. He directed avant-garde productions and founded The Manhattan Project. Gregory left theatre in 1975 to explore spirituality and New Age beliefs, later returning to direct small productions. He has appeared in films like The Last Temptation of Christ and Demolition Man. Gregory's life and work were documented in the film Andre Gregory: Before and After Dinner, and he released his memoir, This Is Not My Memoir, in 2020.
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