Pierce Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Pierce come from? What does the surname Pierce mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Pierce and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Pierce Origin: What does the last name Pierce mean?
The surname Pierce is of English, Welsh, and Irish origin, with roots tracing back to the early 15th century in England, according to YourRoots data. It is a cognate of the French name Pierre, meaning "Peter." Over the centuries, the Pierce surname has expanded significantly, with a notable increase in records in the United States from the 17th century onwards. Today, the surname remains prominent in the US, reflecting its global spread and presence in other regions worldwide.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Pierce surname in the United Kingdom, with a notable growth in records in the US over the centuries. This surname has established itself in various countries such as France and continues to be prevalent in regions like India, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Ireland, and Nigeria. The Pierce surname signifies a diverse heritage across different cultures and regions, showcasing its enduring legacy and evolution over time.
Pierce Last Name History: Where did the last name Pierce come from?
Origin of Pierce Surname: Where does the last name Pierce originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Pierce first appeared in records from England in the United Kingdom around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Pierce” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Pierce: What does the Pierce surname history look like in the early days?
The “Pierce” surname remained closely associated with England in the United Kingdom through the 15th and into the 16th century. From the 17th century onwards, YourRoots data shows a significant increase in the volume of Pierce family records in the United States, indicating a major shift and growth of the surname in that region.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Pierce surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Pierce surname grew significantly in the United States and it became the primary region for this surname, a trend that continued into the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. As per YourRoots data, the “Pierce” surname remains prominent in the United States today. However, it's also found in other regions and countries worldwide, reflecting its global spread over the centuries.
Explore Pierce last name heritage and Pierce surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Pierce Surame?
Wendell Pierce
Wendell Edward Pierce (born Dec 8, 1962) is an American actor known for his roles in popular TV series like "The Wire," "Treme," and "Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan." He has also appeared in films like "Malcolm X," "Selma," and "Ray." Pierce has received critical acclaim for his work on stage, earning a Tony Award nomination for his role in "Clybourne Park." In addition to his acting career, he is also a successful businessman. Pierce continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, showcasing his talent across various mediums.
Franklin Pierce
Franklin Pierce (November 23, 1804 – October 8, 1869) was the 14th president of the United States, serving from 1853 to 1857. He was a Democrat who faced challenges related to the abolitionist movement and the issue of slavery, ultimately being regarded as one of the worst U.S. presidents. Pierce's personal life was marked by tragedy, and his political decisions contributed to the tensions that led to the American Civil War.
Paul Pierce
Paul Anthony Pierce (October 13, 1977 -) is a retired American professional basketball player known for his 15-year career with the Boston Celtics. Playing alongside Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, he was part of the iconic "Big Three" that led the Celtics to an NBA championship in 2008. Pierce, also known as "the Truth," was a 10-time All-Star and a four-time All-NBA team member. He was named NBA Finals Most Valuable Player in 2008 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021. After retiring, Pierce became a sports talk show contributor and remains a beloved figure in the basketball community.
Gareth Pierce
Gareth Pierce (born 19 Feb 1981) is a Welsh actor and musician known for his roles in popular television series. He portrayed Gavin Moss in BBC Radio 4's The Archers and Todd Grimshaw in ITV's Coronation Street, becoming the second actor to play the latter. Pierce co-founded the band Hafaliadau = Equations and has appeared in various Welsh and English-speaking shows, including Doctor Who and Mr Selfridge. With a diverse acting career spanning soap operas, comedies, and dramas, Pierce has garnered a loyal following for his versatile performances.
Justin Pierce
Justin Charles Pierce (March 21, 1975 – July 10, 2000) was an American actor and skateboarder known for his role in the controversial film "Kids" (1995). Born in London and raised in New York City, Pierce had a troubled childhood but found success in the entertainment industry. He won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Breakthrough Performance and appeared in films like "Next Friday" (2000). Despite his promising career, he tragically passed away at a young age. Pierce's legacy lives on through his work in skateboarding and film.
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