CATOR

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Cator

Origin

Cator is a surname of English origins, believed to derive from the Old French personal name "Cator" or "Catour", which itself is derived from the Latin name "Catto" or "Cattus", meaning fierce or sharp. The surname likely emerged as a nickname for someone exhibiting these qualities.

History

The surname Cator has a long history in England, with records dating back several centuries. The name is most commonly found in the south-eastern counties of Kent and Surrey, where the Cator family has been prominent for generations.

Notable Individuals

1. Sir John Cator (1768–1806): A notable figure in the history of the Cator family, Sir John Cator was a wealthy landowner and developer in the 18th century. He played a significant role in the development of Blackheath Park in London.

2. Neville Cator (1892–1967): A distinguished British diplomat, Neville Cator served as the British Ambassador to Norway during a critical period in World War II.

3. Jane Cator (b. 1980): A contemporary artist known for her innovative approach to installation art, Jane Cator has exhibited her works in galleries across the UK.

Modern Distribution

The surname Cator remains relatively uncommon in the UK, with concentrations in the historical areas of Kent and Surrey. It has also been carried to other parts of the world by descendants of the original Cator families who emigrated.

Coat of Arms

The Cator family crest features traditional heraldic elements such as the griffin, commonly used to symbolize valour and vigilance, as well as the lion, a symbol of strength and courage.

Conclusion

The surname Cator is a distinguished British name with a rich history of notable individuals and cultural contributions. Its origins in the medieval period and continued presence in the modern era make it a fascinating subject of study for genealogists and historians alike.

There are approximately 554 people named Cator in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Cator.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Andy
  • David
  • Denis
  • Dj
  • George
  • James
  • John
  • Marcus
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Trevor

Female

  • Ann
  • Henrietta
  • Jacqueline
  • Jayne
  • Jennifer
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Sandra
  • Susan
  • Tracey
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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