Surname Shearers - Meaning and Origin

Shearers: What does the surname Shearers mean?

The surname Shearers has occupational origins, deriving from the Old English word "scear" which means "shears" or "scissors". It was used to denote individuals who were involved in the profession of shearing, particularly sheep in medieval times. These individuals were responsible for removing sheep's fleece, which was then used for making woolen goods. So, the surname Shearers essentially represents the process of shearing and those who made their living from it. As with many other occupational surnames, the development, use, and propagation of the surname likely began once the occupation became hereditary and essentially a part of the family's identity. Over time and migration, variations of the surname have emerged. This is why Shearers can have different spellings such as Shearer, Shearar, Sherar, Sherer, and more.

Shearers: Where does the name Shearers come from?

The last name Shearers is primarily found in Scotland, with many generations living there since records began in the early 1500's. The Shearers name is most commonly associated with the western regions, particularly the Highlands and the southern parts of the Kingdom of Scotland, as well as the north-east coast and Glasgow. Across the UK, Shearers is among the 20 most common surnames. It enjoys a high rate of frequency, especially in the Midlands and some parts of the East and West of England. Shearers is also very common in Australia and New Zealand and is largely represented by descendants of the many who immigrated there in the 19th century. The Shearers name is well documented in the United States, especially in Texas, but has become much more UK-specific since about 1865. In addition, there are now a significant number of Shearers living in Canada, India, and elsewhere worldwide.

Variations of the surname Shearers

The Shearers surname has a few variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. The most common variant of Shearers is Shearer. Other variants include Scherr, Scherrer, and Schreur.

The Shearers surname originated in Scotland and is derived from the Anglo-Saxon term 'scir gerant', meaning 'shire reeve'. This term was used to refer to a person who oversaw a shire on behalf of the King. Over time, the name was adapted and changed to the more common spelling of Shearer.

Variants of Shearers that incorporate the Gaelic spelling of the surname include Shearar, Shearor, and Shearwar. The Gaelic version of Shearer translates to mean 'one who tends sheep', which is a more recent adaptation of the surname.

Other variants of the Shearer surname include Shearman, Sherran, Sherer, Sherron, Sherrard, Sherratt, Sharratt, Sharrah, and Schorran.

The various spellings of the Shearer surname can be found throughout Scotland, England, Ireland, and Germany, and are still common today.

Famous people with the name Shearers

• Harry Shearer: the legendary voice actor best known for his roles of Ned Flanders on The Simpsons, and other popular characters like Reverend Lovejoy, Principal Skinner, Dr. Hibbert, Mr. Burns, and Smithers.
• Ally Shearer: an American model and fitness enthusiast best known for her presence on Instagram and YouTube.
• Derek Shearer: an economist and college professor most recently known for his positions as United States Ambassador to Finland and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce in the Department of Commerce during the Clinton administration.
• Dick Shearer: a legendary pro wrestler who competed in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA).
• Dave Shearer: a former professional ice hockey player who played in the NHL from 1977-1984.
• Louise Shearer: a Scottish actress of stage and screen, best known for her appearances in EastEnders, Clocking Off, and Nanny.
• May Shearer: a former Scottish silent film actress, best known for her starring roles in Annette and The Age of Innocence.
• Lawrence Shearer: an American business executive, best known for serving as CEO of Bacardi USA, Inc. from 2004-2015.
• Alan Shearer: a former English professional footballer who played for Southampton, Blackburn Rovers, Newcastle United, and England's national team.
• Mel Shearer: a former professional ice hockey player who played from 1939-1950 in the NHL for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Other surnames

Shearer