OTTER
Otter
The surname Otter has its origins in England, specifically in the region of East Anglia. It is derived from the Old English word "ottere," which means "otter." The otter is a semiaquatic mammal known for its playful nature and excellent swimming abilities.
Origins
The surname Otter likely originated as a nickname for someone who displayed otter-like characteristics, such as being a skilled swimmer, having a playful personality, or living near water sources where otters are found.
Distribution
The surname Otter has been recorded in various parts of England, with concentrations in regions close to water bodies where otters are prevalent. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Otter have migrated to other parts of the United Kingdom and the world.
Notable Bearers
- Ivan Otter: A renowned marine biologist known for his research on otter ecology.
- Caroline Otter: A talented swimmer who represented Great Britain in the Olympics.
Variants
Variants of the surname Otter include Oter, Otters, and Ottar.
Coat of Arms
The Otter family may have a coat of arms, typically featuring symbols associated with water or otters, although individual family coats of arms can vary.
The surname Otter continues to be borne by individuals worldwide, maintaining a link to its aquatic and playful origins.
There are approximately 1,368 people named Otter in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,768th most common surname in Britain. Around 21 in a million people in Britain are named Otter.
Surname type: Nickname
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
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Simon
- Stephen
Female
- Carolyn
- Charlotte
- Jane
- Jean
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Rebecca
- Ruth
- Sarah
- Susan