Surname Fraser - Meaning and Origin

Unraveling Fraser Lineage: A Journey from Ancient Gaul to Scotland through iGENEA DNA Test

I just received my iGENEA DNA test results and the comprehensive analysis gives a fascinating account of the Fraser surname. It traces back its origin to ancient Gaul, follows its journey to Scotland, the roles my ancestors played, and culminates in me, providing a rich tapestry of history and genetics.

V. Fraser

Fraser: What does the surname Fraser mean?

The surname Fraser originates from Scotland and has both territorial and occupational connotations. According to one theory, it comes from the French term "fraise," meaning strawberry, which implies that those who bore the name Fraser in the early times might have been strawberry farmers or have lived in places where strawberries were abundant. Another theory suggests that the name comes from a French place called "La Freselière" in Anjou, from which the Fraser family of Scotland is believed to have descended. Some other sources argue that Fraser is derived from a Flemish or Norman ancestry. The coat of arms of the Fraser clan indeed features strawberry flowers, signifying hope and joy. The surname Fraser is popular in Scotland, particularly in the region of Inverness. The Fraser clan has a rich history in Scotland, featuring prominently in Scottish historical events like the Scottish Wars of Independence in the 14th century.

Fraser: Where does the name Fraser come from?

The surname Fraser originates from France, with the name alleged to descend from a French nobleman, Pierre de Frézelière, who arrived in Scotland in the 12th century. The name derives from the French word "fraises", meaning strawberries. The Frasers were a powerful and influential Scottish clan and controlled vast territory in northeastern Scotland. Today, Fraser is a common surname in Scotland, England, and Canada, particularly in British Columbia due to the Fraser River (named after early explorer Simon Fraser). It's also relatively common in the United States. The popularity of the surname Fraser has increased lately due to its association with the main characters in the hit TV show and book series "Outlander".

Variations of the surname Fraser

The surname Fraser has several different variants and spellings in different regions due to its Scottish and French origins. Some of the common variants include "Frasier," "Frazier," and "Frazer," which are primarily used in English-speaking countries. These variations can be attributed to different phonetic interpretations and spelling errors over time.

In some cases, regional naming customs have also led to unique derivations of this surname. For example, in certain regions in Ireland, Fraser is sometimes rendered as "McFrazier" or "McFrazer," with the prefix "Mc" meaning "son of."

On the other hand, some variants have evolved due to French influence on the name, including "Fraser de Berry" or "Fraser de Lovat."

Besides, other variations connected with geographical locations in Scotland linked to the Fraser families have emerged– like "Frazer of Philorth," "Fraser of Inverallochy," or "Fraser of Findrack."

Fraser has also proven influential in first names, with "Fraser," "Frazier," and "Frasier" utilized in English-speaking countries.

Note that even within the same region, variations could occur over a couple of generations due to linguistic, handwriting, or spelling differences. Meanwhile, the ways people pronounced the surname or how a clerk or census enumerator wrote the name can also account for various spellings.

Famous people with the name Fraser

• Brendan Fraser: Famous Canadian-American actor known for his roles in "The Mummy" series and "George of the Jungle."
• Dawn Fraser: Australian swimmer, eight-time Olympic medalist who was named Australian of the Year in 1964.
• Laura Fraser: Scottish actress best known for her roles in the television series "Breaking Bad" and "Better Call Saul."
• Peter Fraser: Former Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1940 to 1949.
• Jamie Fraser: The fictional protagonist of the "Outlander" series written by Diana Gabaldon.
• Malcolm Fraser: Australian politician who served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Australia from 1975 to 1983.
• Tommy Fraser: English professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He is recognized for his time with Brighton & Hove Albion and Port Vale.
• Gordon Fraser: Canadian professional road racing cyclist who rode in the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney.
• Elizabeth Fraser: British singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the lead vocalist of the band Cocteau Twins.
• Joanna Fraser: British International netball player who plays for Severn Stars in the Netball Superleague.
• Simon Fraser: Explorer, fur trader, and map-maker who charted much of what is now British Columbia, Canada.
• Douglas Fraser: Scottish professional golfer who plays on the European Tour.

Other surnames

FraseeFraseirFraser of Lovat