Phillimore Family History

A variant of Finnemore features a late medieval or early post-medieval change from -n- to -l-. This might also be linked to a minor place in Slimbridge (Gloucs), which has an uncertain etymology and was recorded as Fyllymore in 1562 (Gloucs Archives). This location appears to be the same as Fulemore, which was documented between 1200 and 1212 (Berkeley Castle Muniments).

Another potential origin is Fullamoor in Whitchurch (Devon). Notable comparisons include Roger de Fulemore, recorded in 1309 in Patent Rolls (Devon), as well as Roger Folemore, also recorded in 1309 in TNA (Devon). Additionally, [... de] Folamor appears in 1346 in Place-Names of Devon.

The place-name likely derives from Old English fola, meaning ‘foal’, combined with mōr, which translates to ‘moor’.