Torrence Surname

The surname Torrence is a popular surname with a rich history and widespread distribution around the world. In this article, we will delve into the origins and meanings of the surname Torrence, as well as its distribution in different countries.

Origins of the Surname Torrence

The surname Torrence is of Scottish origin, derived from the place name Torrance in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire. The name comes from the Old Gaelic word “torran,” meaning a hillock or a small knoll. The suffix “-ce” is a common element in Scottish place names, denoting “a place of” or “belonging to.” Therefore, Torrance means “a place of hillocks” or “a place belonging to the hillocks.”

The first recorded instance of the surname Torrence dates back to the 12th century, with the Torrance family being prominent landowners in the area. Over the centuries, the surname spread to other parts of Scotland and eventually to other English-speaking countries.

Meanings of the Surname Torrence

As mentioned earlier, the surname Torrence is derived from the Old Gaelic word “torran” meaning a hillock. Therefore, the surname could be interpreted as “descendant of the person who lived by the hillocks” or “one who came from the place of the hillocks.”

Alternatively, some sources suggest that the surname Torrence may also have Norman origins, with the name being brought to Scotland during the Norman invasion of England. In this context, the surname could be derived from the Norman personal name Torence, which itself is of uncertain etymology.

Distribution of the Surname Torrence

The surname Torrence is most commonly found in the United States, with over 8000 incidences of the name according to available data. This is not surprising given the significant Scottish and Irish migration to the United States over the centuries.

United States

In the United States, the surname Torrence is most prevalent in states with a history of Scottish and Irish migration, such as Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and California. Families with the surname Torrence can trace their roots back to Scottish immigrants who settled in these areas and established themselves in various industries.

Venezuela

In Venezuela, the surname Torrence is much less common, with only 132 incidences of the name. This can be attributed to the smaller Scottish and Irish diaspora in South America compared to North America. However, there are still Venezuelan families with the surname Torrence who can trace their ancestry back to Scottish or Irish immigrants.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the surname Torrence is found in different regions, with the highest incidences in England, Wales, and Scotland. The name has variations in spelling, such as Torrington or Torrens, but all ultimately trace back to the same Scottish origin.

Canada, Australia, and Other Countries

In Canada, Australia, and other countries, the surname Torrence is less common but still present. These countries have smaller Scottish and Irish populations compared to the United States and the United Kingdom, resulting in fewer incidences of the name.

In conclusion, the surname Torrence has a fascinating history and widespread distribution around the world. From its origins in Scotland to its presence in various countries, the surname Torrence has left its mark on different cultures and societies. Families with the surname Torrence can take pride in their rich heritage and unique lineage.

The surname Torrence within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same happens in the case of Torrence, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that can be found in most of the countries of this globe. In the same manner you can find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of people because of the surname Torrence is more than in other countries.

The map of the Torrence surname

1. United States (8160)
2. Venezuela (132)
3. England (57)
4. Wales (47)
5. Canada (28)
6. Saint Lucia (8)
7. Scotland (6)
8. Australia (4)
9. Denmark (3)
10. Sweden (2)
11. Romania (1)
12. Russia (1)
13. Thailand (1)
14. Barbados (1)
15. Bangladesh (1)
16. Brazil (1)
17. Switzerland (1)
18. Ivory Coast (1)
19. Chile (1)
20. China (1)
21. Germany (1)
22. Ecuador (1)
23. Spain (1)
24. Guernsey (1)
25. Indonesia (1)
26. Japan (1)
27. Cayman Islands (1)
28. Malawi (1)
29. Netherlands (1)
30. Norway (1)
31. New Zealand (1)
32. Philippines (1)
33. Portugal (1)