Origin of Cherry

70,800People worldwide
123Countries
United StatesMain country (65%)
The surname Cherry, also found in variations such as Cherryman and Cherriman, is an English occupational surname. It is derived from the Old English word "chirie" and could either refer to a cherry grower or seller, or may have been a medieval term of endearment for someone with rosy cheeks or red hair. During the Middle Ages, England experienced a warm climate period similar to that of Roman times and perhaps the 20th century. As a result, certain fruits that were previously only grown on the continent started being cultivated in England, with the cherry being a popular choice. Early recordings of the surname Cherry include Robert Chyry in the Assize Register of Lancashire in 1284 and later, both Hugh Churie and Robert Cherry, registered in the East Anglian county of Suffolk in 1524. These later recordings were made during the reign of King Henry VIII, 1510-1547. Examples of the surname Cherry in historical records include William Cherie in Derbyshire in 1273, William Chery in the Close Rolls in 1450, and John Cherry in Cheshire in 1701. The surname has been associated with various locations across England and Scotland, indicating a widespread presence of individuals bearing the name Cherry. The etymology of the surname Cherry suggests various origins, including connections to a geographic location near a cherry tree or a personal name. The surname has been recorded in different forms throughout history, reflecting the evolution of language and naming practices over time. Additionally, the surname Cherry has been associated with individuals of diverse backgrounds and occupations, from merchants and burgesses to guild members and toll-bar keepers. The surname has also been linked to notable historical figures such as Andrew Cherry, a dramatist and writer of popular songs, and Judge Richard Robert Cherry. In Ireland, the surname Cherry has a relatively recent introduction, with the first recorded individual being Edward Cherrye of Dublin in 1613. While isolated families bearing the surname were found in various counties during the 17th and 18th centuries, the name has been most prevalent in east Ulster since 1680. Prominent figures with the surname Cherry in Ireland include Andrew Cherry, a well-known dramatist and writer, and Judge Richard Robert Cherry. The surname Cherry is believed to have French Huguenot origins, tracing back to the family of De Cheries, seigneurs of Brauvel, Beauval, and other locations in Normandy. The name is said to have been Latinized as De Ceraso and is associated with a place near Avranches called Cheris. Variations of the surname Cherry have been documented in different historical sources, reflecting the diverse linguistic influences on the name. Overall, the surname Cherry has a rich and varied history, with connections to both occupational and geographical origins. From its early appearances in medieval records to its prevalence in certain regions and among specific individuals, the surname Cherry offers a glimpse into the complex history of naming practices and family identities in England and beyond. Bibliography: 1. A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames (1896) by Charles Wareing Endell Bardsley 2. The Surnames of Scotland (1946) by George Fraser Black 3. Supplement to Irish Families (1964) by Edward MacLysaght 4. Surnames of the United Kingdom (1912) by Henry Harrison 5. A Guide to Irish Names (1964) by Edward MacLysaght 6. Dictionary of American Family Names (1956) by Elsdon Coles Smith 7. Patronymica Britannica (1860) by Mark Antony Lower 8. Ludus Patronymicus (1868) by Richard Stephen Charnock 9. The Norman People (1874) 10. British Family Names: Their Origin and Meaning (1903) by Henry Barber

Countries with the highest occurrence of Cherry

Distribution of Cherry by continent

North America
48,425
20 countries
Asia
8,754
30 countries
Oceania
3,475
6 countries
Africa
2,384
19 countries
Europe
563
34 countries
South America
299
8 countries

Surnames resembling Cherry

Frequently asked questions about the surname Cherry

In which country is the surname Cherry most common?

The surname Cherry is most common in United States with 46,331 registered people.

In how many countries is the surname Cherry found?

The surname Cherry is found in 123 different countries around the world.

How many people have the surname Cherry?

According to our records, approximately 70,800 people have the surname Cherry worldwide.

Are there surnames similar to Cherry?

Yes, there are several surnames that sound or are spelled similarly to Cherry. You can see the full list of similar surnames on this same page.