Kerr Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kerr come from? What does the surname Kerr mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kerr and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Kerr Origin: What does the last name Kerr mean?
The surname Kerr is of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Middle English word "kerr," meaning 'brushwood wet ground.' It is a topographic surname for someone who lived near a marsh or swampy woodland. Clan Kerr in Scotland has deep roots associated with this surname. Records show that Kerr first appeared in Scotland around the early 12th century, and it remained closely tied to Scotland through the 15th century.
YourRoots data confirms Kerr's presence in the United Kingdom since the early 12th century, with the surname starting to spread globally over the centuries. By the 19th century, the volume of Kerr surname records grew significantly in the United States, surpassing Scotland in prominence. Today, the Kerr surname remains prominent in the United States and Scotland, appearing in various regions worldwide, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread presence.
Kerr Last Name History: Where did the last name Kerr come from?
Origin of Kerr Surname: Where does the last name Kerr originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Kerr first appeared in records from Scotland, United Kingdom, around the early 12th century. However, this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact "Kerr" spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Kerr: What does the Kerr surname history look like in the early days?
The "Kerr" surname remained closely associated with Scotland, United Kingdom, from the 12th through the 15th century. YourRoots data also shows Kerr family records in other countries, indicating the surname started to spread globally over the centuries. However, the detailed data for the countries with Kerr surname from the 16th to 18th century is not provided in the summary.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kerr surname today?
By the 19th century, the volume of records with the Kerr surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 20th century, it had surpassed Scotland, a trend that continued into the 21st century. The "Kerr" surname remains prominent in both the United States and Scotland, and it also appears in other regions worldwide. However, the detailed data for the countries with Kerr surname in the 21st century is not provided in the summary.
Explore Kerr last name heritage and Kerr surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kerr Surame?
Steve Kerr
Stephen Douglas Kerr (born Sep 27, 1965) is a former NBA player and the head coach for the Golden State Warriors. Kerr is known for his accurate three-point shooting and holds the record for highest career three-point percentage. He won multiple NBA championships as a player and coach, including with the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs. Kerr's successful coaching career with the Warriors led them to multiple NBA Finals and championships. Kerr's background in basketball and his family's history in the Middle East have shaped his life and career.
Miranda Kerr
Miranda May Kerr (born Apr 20, 1983) is an Australian model known for her work with Victoria's Secret and as the face of Australian department store David Jones. Kerr has her own organic skincare brand, KORA Organics, and has written a self-help book. She began modelling at a young age and has been featured in various fashion campaigns and magazines. Kerr is also known for her high-profile relationships, including her marriage to actor Orlando Bloom and her current marriage to Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel. With her successful career and entrepreneurial ventures, Kerr continues to be a prominent figure in the fashion industry.
Deborah Kerr
Deborah Jane Trimmer Kerr CBE (Sep 30, 1921 – Oct 16, 2007) was a Scottish actress known for her remarkable performances in classic films. Nominated six times for the Academy Award for Best Actress, she was the first person from Scotland to receive such recognition. Kerr won a Golden Globe for her role in "The King and I" and starred in iconic movies like "From Here to Eternity" and "An Affair to Remember". Her grace and elegance on screen earned her an Academy Honorary Award in 1994, solidifying her status as a legendary actress in Hollywood.
Sam Kerr
Samantha May Kerr (born Sep 10, 1993) is an Australian professional soccer player known for her speed, skill, and tenacity. She plays as a striker for Women's Super League club Chelsea and the Australia women's national team. Kerr is considered one of the best strikers globally and holds the record for the all-time leading Australian international scorer with 69 international goals. She has won multiple Golden Boot awards in various leagues and continents, showcasing her talent and dominance in women's soccer. Kerr has achieved numerous accolades and continues to inspire aspiring athletes with her remarkable career and achievements.
Malcolm H. Kerr
Malcolm Hooper Kerr (October 8, 1931 – January 18, 1984) was a renowned university professor specializing in the Middle East and the Arab world. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, he later became the president of the American University of Beirut. Kerr was known for his honest and forthright scholarship, advocating for Arab-Israeli peace and understanding between the Arab World and the West. Tragically, he was assassinated during the Lebanese Civil War, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence and dedication to peace.
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