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Origin of the Last Name Fisher

Introduction

The last name Fisher is a common surname that has its roots in various sources. It is derived from the Middle English word 'fischer,' which means 'fisherman.' The name was likely given to those who worked as fishermen or lived near bodies of water. However, the name could also have been given to those who sold fish or had some association with the fishing industry. In this article, we will explore the origin and meaning of the last name Fisher, as well as its prevalence and notable individuals who bear the name.

Origin of the Name Fisher

The last name Fisher is derived from the Middle English word 'fischer,' which means 'fisherman.' The name was likely given to those who worked as fishermen or lived near bodies of water. However, the name could also have been given to those who sold fish or had some association with the fishing industry. The name Fisher is also found in other languages, such as German, where it is spelled 'Fischer,' and Dutch, where it is spelled 'Visser.'

Prevalence of the Name Fisher

The last name Fisher is a common surname in many English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. According to the 2010 United States Census, Fisher was the 129th most common surname in the country, with over 200,000 individuals bearing the name. In the United Kingdom, Fisher is the 182nd most common surname, with over 50,000 individuals bearing the name. The name is also prevalent in other countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Notable Individuals with the Last Name Fisher

There are many notable individuals who bear the last name Fisher. Some of these individuals include:

1. Carrie Fisher

Carrie Fisher was an American actress, writer, and comedian. She is best known for her role as Princess Leia in the Star Wars franchise. Fisher was born into a Hollywood family, with her mother being actress Debbie Reynolds and her father being singer Eddie Fisher. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 60.

2. Bobby Fisher

Bobby Fisher was an American chess player who is widely considered to be one of the greatest players of all time. He became the youngest player to win the United States Championship at the age of 14 and went on to win the World Chess Championship in 1972. Fisher passed away in 2008 at the age of 64.

3. Doris Fisher

Doris Fisher was an American songwriter who wrote many popular songs in the 1930s and 1940s. Some of her most famous songs include 'Put the Blame on Mame' and 'You Always Hurt the One You Love.' Fisher passed away in 2003 at the age of 87.

4. Eddie Fisher

Eddie Fisher was an American singer and actor who was popular in the 1950s. He had many hit songs, including 'Oh! My Pa-Pa' and 'I'm Walking Behind You.' Fisher was also married to actress Debbie Reynolds and later to actress Elizabeth Taylor. He passed away in 2010 at the age of 82.

5. Jenna Fisher

Jenna Fisher is an American actress who is best known for her role as Pam Beesly on the television show The Office. She has also appeared in many films, including Blades of Glory and Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story.

Conclusion

The last name Fisher has a rich history and is derived from various sources. It is a common surname in many English-speaking countries and has been borne by many notable individuals throughout history. Whether you are researching your family history or looking for a name for your child, the name Fisher is a strong and meaningful choice.