How Do You Spell FITZMAURICE?

Pronunciation: [fɪtsmˈɔːɹɪs] (IPA)

The spelling of "Fitzmaurice" can be a bit tricky to decipher at first glance. The word comes from an Irish surname, and the "z" might throw off English speakers who are not used to seeing it in this context. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /fɪtsˈmɔːrɪs/. This breaks it down into individual sounds, including the "s" at the end, which might sound like it is missing in casual conversation. Despite its unusual spelling, "Fitzmaurice" is a fascinating word that tells a story of Irish heritage and tradition.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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FITZMAURICE Meaning and Definition

  1. Fitzmaurice is a surname with Irish origins, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Giolla Mhuire, which translates to "son of the servant of Mary". It is a patronymic name indicating a descendant of a man with the given name Giolla Mhuire, who likely held a religious connection to the Virgin Mary.

    The Fitzmaurice surname has a rich and notable history in Ireland, particularly in the regions of Kerry and Limerick. Over the centuries, various prominent individuals and families have borne this surname, contributing to the recognition of Fitzmaurice as an influential Irish family name.

    As a surname, Fitzmaurice carries the significance of lineage and ancestry. It signifies belonging to a kinship group or family with historical ties to the Gaelic culture and traditions. Those with the surname Fitzmaurice often identify strongly with their Irish heritage and may have a sense of pride and connection to their ancestral roots.

    Today, individuals with the surname Fitzmaurice can be found not only in Ireland but also in other parts of the world, primarily due to Irish emigration. As with many surnames, variations in spelling and pronunciation may exist, but the general meaning and historical significance remain consistent.

Etymology of FITZMAURICE

The word "Fitzmaurice" is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic surname "Mac Muiris".

In Gaelic, "Mac" means "son of", and "Muiris" is a variant form of the name "Maurice", which is derived from the Latin name "Mauritius". The name "Mauritius" itself refers to someone from Mauritania, a region in North Africa.

Over time, "Mac Muiris" was anglicized into "Fitzmaurice", with "Fitz" being a Norman French prefix meaning "son of". This particular surname is associated with various Irish families and clans, such as the Fitzmaurice family of Kerry, who were descended from the Norman conquerors of Ireland.