Summary

The surname 'Weir' has origins in Scotland. It is believed to have derived from a Scottish locational name meaning 'weir,' referring to a dam set across a river to regulate water flow. The Weir family likely resided near such structures or worked as keepers of the weirs. Over time, the surname spread to other parts of the world, particularly English-speaking countries.
There are
18881
Weirs in the USA
Weir is the
1903rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Weir

BobWeir

Bob Weir is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist, best known as a founding member of the Grateful Dead.

JulianWeir

Julian Weir is a British artist known for his landscape paintings that often depict serene and ethereal scenes.

LouiseWeir

Louise Weir is a Scottish swimmer who represented Great Britain at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

PeterWeir

Peter Weir is an Australian film director known for his works such as 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' and 'Dead Poets Society.'

ElizabethWeir

Elizabeth Weir is a fictional character in the science fiction television series 'Stargate Atlantis,' portrayed by Jessica Steen.

TomWeir

Tom Weir was a Scottish climber, author, and broadcaster known for his television series 'Weir's Way,' which showcased Scotland's landscapes.

ScottWeir

Scott Weir is a former Canadian ice hockey player who played in the NHL for various teams including the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs.

SimoneWeir

Simone Weir is an Australian rower who won a silver medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics in the women's double sculls event.

DuncanWeir

Duncan Weir is a Scottish rugby player who has represented the national team and played for various clubs including Glasgow Warriors and Worcester Warriors.

AnnieWeir

Annie Weir is a fictional character in the American television series 'Friday Night Lights,' portrayed by Lorraine Toussaint.

Weir Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Weir' is of Scottish and Northern Irish origin. It is derived from the Old Norse word 'wir' or 'vere,' which means 'weir' or 'dam,' referring to someone who lived near or worked with a dam or fish trap.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Weir' is primarily found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where it originated. However, it can also be found in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Weir' include 'Ware, Wier, Wear, Wyer, Wire, Weyer, Wiercinski, Viir, Wiersma, and Weer'.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Weir' has been carried by immigrants from Scotland and Northern Ireland to various countries, particularly during periods of British colonization and migration.