Dees is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English word “dǣs” meaning “meadow”. It is most commonly found in the northeast of Scotland, particularly in Aberdeenshire. The name is often spelled “Deas” in Scotland and the United States. Notable individuals with the surname Dees include civil rights attorney Morris Dees, musician Jimmy Dees, and professional basketball player Terry Dehere. The Dees family motto is “dum spiro spero”, which translates to “while I breathe, I hope”.