DAVITT

Davitt

Origin and Meaning: Davitt is an English surname of patronymic origin, derived from the first name David. This surname is prevalent in the British Isles and is particularly well-known in Ireland.

History: The Davitt surname is associated with the Gaelic speaking regions of Ireland, where it has been documented as early as the 16th century. The most famous bearer of the Davitt name is Michael Davitt (1846-1906), an Irish republican and social agitator who played a prominent role in the Land League movement, advocating for tenant farmers' rights against exploitative landlords.

Distribution and Present Day: The Davitt surname, while historically rooted in Ireland, can also be found in other English-speaking countries due to migration and the Irish diaspora. Today, individuals bearing the Davitt surname can be found across the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.

Variants: Variants of the Davitt surname include Davitte, Davit, and David.

Notable Bearers:

• Michael Davitt (1846-1906) - Irish nationalist and social campaigner.
• Joe Davitt - contemporary musician known for his contributions to the British jazz scene.

References:

• MacLysaght, Edward. The Surnames of Ireland. Irish Academic Press, 1980.
• Woulfe, Patrick. Sloinnte Gaedheal is Gall: Irish names and surnames. Irish Roots Cafe, 2018.

Surname type: Diminutive

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

• Andrew
• David
• James
• John
• Joseph
• Maxwell
• Michael
• Patrick
• Paul
• Simon
• Thomas
• William

Female

• Ann
• Catherine
• Elizabeth
• Heather
• Helen
• Hilary
• Jacqueline
• Margaret
• Mary
• Michelle
• Patricia
• Sheila
• Teresa

Similar and related surnames

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