Butter

Origin: Butter is an English surname of occupational origin, derived from the Middle English "butere," meaning "butter." It is believed to have been a name given to those who were involved in the production or selling of butter.

History: The surname Butter is first recorded in English records in the 13th century. It has been found in various forms, including Buter, Boutter, and Bouter. The name was likely given to individuals who worked as butter producers, dairy farmers, or butter sellers. During the Middle Ages, butter was an essential part of the British diet and economy, so those involved in its production held significant roles in society.

Variants: Variants of the surname Butter include Buttar, Butters, Buttry, and Butt.

Notable Individuals:

  • Nigel Butterworth (1923–2009): British sculptor known for his works in various mediums, including wood, stone, and bronze.
  • Emily Butters (b. 1975): English author famous for her novels depicting life in rural England in the 19th century.
  • David Buttar (b. 1981): Scottish politician and member of the Scottish Parliament for the South of Scotland region.
  • Lucy Buttress (1985– ): British garden designer known for her innovative use of plants and materials.

Trivia:

  • The Butter family name is still found in various parts of England, particularly in the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Yorkshire.
  • The Butter surname has also been adopted by some American families of English descent.

References:

  • Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A dictionary of English surnames. Oxford University Press.
  • Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford dictionary of family names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.

There are approximately 502 people named Butter in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Butter.

Surname type: Occupational name

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Charles
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Nigel
  • Norman
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Catherine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Jean
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Pamela
  • Sally
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Tracy
  • Wendy

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