Origin of Fears
Recorded in the spellings of Fear, Feare, Fears, Feares and Phear, this is an English surname which means the absolute opposite of what it may appears to say. It derives from the Old English pre 7th century word "fere" meaning a comrade or companion, and also the Olde French "fier" translating as fierce or bold. Originally the name was baptismal although in later medieval times it may have been a nickname for somebody with the characteristics of being brave or a good companion, which in the context of the time must have meant much the same thing.
"Nicknames" form a large percentage of British and Irish surnames, and those associated with personal bravery and fortitude seem to have survived the centuries to become surnames in their own right, when others which have less favourable backgrounds, disappeared. Halliwell quotes "And of Burgayne, dewke Loyere, he was a bold man and a fere", clarely a reference to being a good comrade. Examples of the surname recordings taken from authentic rolls and charters of Medieval England include Roger le Feer of Essex and William le Fer of Somerset both in the year 1327, whilst Francis Fear, "tooke shippe for Virginea" from the island of Barbados on October 1st 1679. He was one of the first people anywhere to be recorded as a passenger, that is to say somebody who was granted a "tiquett", although he was unlikely to have been a holiday maker! The first recording of this surname anywhere in the world is believed to be that of Walter Fere, a land owner, in the "Hundred Rolls" of the county of Oxford in the year 1279. This was in the reign of King Edward 1st of England, 1272 - 1307.
The surname Fears. Genealogy, origin, history, meaning, and significance
We can try to trace the genealogy of the surname fears, and in addition to the original locations of fears, we can find out where people with the surname fears can currently be found. Adhering to what we know about the way surnames originated, it is possible to offer a realistic explanation of the origins of fears.
The surname Fears around the world
The mobility of people carrying the surname fears has led to its presence in different countries, as you can verify.
History of Fears
The history, heraldry, coats of arms, and possible nobility of the surname fears are scattered in documents across various regions and historical periods, so it is necessary to reconstruct a complex puzzle to approach the facts from a realistic perspective. In the following lines, you will find everything we have been able to gather about the surname fears.
Please note that if you are in a position to provide more data about the surname fears or any other surname and its origin, we would appreciate your collaboration with us by sending us information about the origin of fears.
Notable Figures Named Fears
A surname like fears can connect a person to an illustrious lineage and a distinguished coat of arms. However, it must be kept in mind that it is individual people who, through their lives and actions, bring fame and recognition to their surnames. If you or someone you know bears the surname fears, you could potentially build illustrious lineages through your efforts and virtues.
The surname Fears and its bibliographic sources
We consider it highly advisable to refer to the following sources if you wish to conduct research on the surname fears, as well as many other surnames. Accessing the archives of the town or towns where your ancestors were born and lived is, of course, a good way to trace the origins of fears.
SOURCES
These sources are essential for initiating the understanding of fears, and at the same time, of surnames in general.
