Surname Palmour - Meaning and Origin

Palmour: What does the surname Palmour mean?

The last name Palmour is derived from the medieval French word "Palmer" (derived from "palmier" meaning palm tree) which was given to the Christian pilgrims who had visited the Holy Land, as they often brought back palm leaves as proof of their journey. So, the name is occupational and linked to religious activities.

Moreover, in England, the name "Palmer" was used to denote an official pilgrim receiver. Over time, several variants evolved, and Palmour is one of them. Therefore, the last name Palmour may suggest that the person’s ancestors were involved in religious activities either as pilgrims or as official pilgrim receivers.

However, like many surnames with occupational or geographic roots, the exact origins and meaning of the name may vary and evolve over time. It's also important to note that surnames can often have multiple possible meanings or origins, depending on the family and geographic location.

Palmour: Where does the name Palmour come from?

The last name Palmour is primarily found in the United States. According to the United States Census Bureau (USCB) the last name Palmour is the 8,699th most common surname in the United States. There is also a small number of Palmour families found in Canada, Scotland, and England, although these families likely have their origins in the United States.

In both the United States and Canada, the highest concentration of Palmour families is in the Southern United States. Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina are the states with the most Palmour families. The Palmour name is also present in the Midwest and parts of the Northeast.

The name Palmour likely has its roots in either France or Scotland. The name French-origin name may be a variation of Palmer, derived from the Latin for ‘pilgrim’. The Scottish surname may be derived from the ancient Gaelic name ‘Parthmaura’, which means ‘a martyr’s mound’.

Given its regional concentration and distinct origins, there is likely no single definitive answer to ‘Where is the last name Palmour common today?’ However, according to USCB data, the vast majority of Palmours still reside in the United States.

Variations of the surname Palmour

Palmour is one of many surnames derived from the same name. Variants of the name Palmour include Palmor, Palmer, Palmoore, Pammer, Parmore and Palmore.

Palmour is a patronymic surname. Patronymic surnames are derived from the father’s given name, in this case, Palmour. Such names were initially formed from the father’s given name in order to differentiate individuals and families within a community.

The spelling of Palmour is likely a variant of the English surname Palmer. This surname is derived from the Old French noun ‘palme’, which meant palm branch, and was likely first used as a nickname or surname for pilgrims who returned with a palm branch from the Holy Land.

The surname Palmore is derived from the Middle English given name ‘Palme’. This given name was a pet form of the given name ‘Palle’, which is derived from the Old English given name ‘Peal’.

Palmer, Palmor, Palmoore, Pammer and Parmore are all variants of the French surname Palmier, which was derived from the Old French personal name ‘Palma’. This personal name was possibly derived from the Latin ‘palma’, meaning palm tree.

In conclusion, Palmour is a patronymic surname whose origin is closely related to other surnames; Palmer, Palmoore, Pammer, Palmore and Parmore. Many variants of the surname Palmour exist and are all derived from either French or English given names.

Famous people with the name Palmour

• Bill Palmour: animator and art director at Cartoon Network.
• Marian Palmour: retired American actress who appeared in films such as To Kill a Mockingbird and Battle Cry.
• Brandon Palmour: Senior Manager of The LEGO Group.
• Chris Palmour: Chef, Executive Chef/Director at D.C. Central Kitchen
• Ron Palmour: American guitarist, songwriter and composer.
• Morgan Palmour: American artist and sculptor.
• Jason Palmour: Professional golfer who has competed on the PGA Tour & Web.com Tour.
• Mercedes Palmour: Latin American Author and alsomusician.
• Mark Palmour: Professional stuntman and actor who appeared in many of the action movies.
• Brook Palmour: American experimental musician, producer and composer.

Other surnames

PalmoorePalmore