Pryor Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Pryor come from? What does the surname Pryor mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Pryor and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Pryor Origin: What does the last name Pryor mean?
The surname Pryor originates from England, with records dating back to the early 16th century. It is believed to have derived from the Old English term for "prioress," indicating a connection to the clergy. Over time, the Pryor surname became associated with various individuals, including notable figures in different fields such as boxing, botany, politics, and sports. By the 20th century, the Pryor name had spread globally, with significant concentrations in the United States, England, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Pryor surname in England and its subsequent expansion to other countries. Today, individuals with the Pryor surname can be found in various regions worldwide, reflecting a diverse heritage and a legacy that continues to thrive. The Pryor surname signifies a rich history and a global presence that has endured over centuries, making it a recognizable and significant name in different parts of the world.
Pryor Last Name History: Where did the last name Pryor come from?
Origin of Pryor Surname: Where does the last name Pryor originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Pryor first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Pryor spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Pryor: What does the Pryor surname history look like in the early days?
The Pryor surname remained closely associated with England from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Pryor family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Pryor surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Pryor surname grew significantly in the United States. The Pryor surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including England, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
Explore Pryor last name heritage and Pryor surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Pryor Surame?
Richard Pryor
Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor Sr. (December 1, 1940 – December 10, 2005) was an iconic American stand-up comedian and actor. Known for his sharp wit and storytelling, Pryor is considered one of the greatest comedians of all time. He won multiple awards, including Emmys and Grammys, and starred in hit films like "Stir Crazy" and "Silver Streak." Pryor's influential career paved the way for future comedians, and his impact on the industry is still felt today.
Rain Pryor
Rain Olivia Pryor (July 16, 1969 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in sitcoms like Head of the Class and Rude Awakening. She is the daughter of legendary comedian Richard Pryor. Raised in a multicultural household, Rain explores themes of race and identity in her award-winning solo show Fried Chicken and Latkes. In addition to her acting career, she is also a jazz/blues vocalist and author of the memoir Jokes My Father Never Taught Me. Rain Pryor continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, showcasing her talent on both stage and screen.
Terrelle Pryor
Terrelle Pryor Sr. (June 20, 1989 - ) is a former American professional football player who excelled as a wide receiver and quarterback. Known for his dual-sport potential, Pryor was a highly recruited high school athlete, ultimately choosing football over basketball. He made a name for himself at Ohio State University, leading the Buckeyes to multiple championships. Pryor went on to play in the NFL for teams like the Oakland Raiders, Cleveland Browns, and Washington Redskins. His versatile skills and athleticism earned him a reputation as a dynamic player in the league.
Frederic Pryor
Frederic LeRoy Pryor (April 23, 1933 – September 2, 2019) was an American economist known for his involvement in a Cold War "spy swap" during his imprisonment in East Germany in 1961. Pryor spent much of his career as a professor of economics at Swarthmore College, where he published numerous books and scholarly articles. Despite facing limited job opportunities due to his past, Pryor had a successful academic career, specializing in comparative economics. He also worked as an economic advisor, consultant, and research director in various institutions. Pryor's life was dramatized in the film "Bridge of Spies," showcasing his resilience and contributions to the field of economics.
Nicholas Pryor
Nicholas David Pryor (January 28, 1935 – October 7, 2024) was an accomplished American character actor known for his roles in various television series and films. He appeared in iconic movies like "Risky Business" and "Less than Zero" and portrayed A. Milton Arnold on the popular show "Beverly Hills, 90210." Pryor also had a successful career in soap operas, notably on "Another World" and "General Hospital." With a humble attitude towards his craft, Pryor left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry before passing away at the age of 89 due to cancer.
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