Otto

Origin: Otto is a surname of Germanic origin that was introduced to Britain during the medieval period. The name is derived from the Old High German personal name "Odo" or "Otto," meaning "wealth" or "fortune".

Distribution: The surname Otto is relatively uncommon in Britain, with most bearers being found in regions with strong historical ties to Germany, such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

Notable Bearers:

  • James Otto (1920-2006): An influential British industrialist and philanthropist known for his contributions to the manufacturing sector.
  • Emily Otto (b. 1985): Award-winning British actress and playwright, known for her performances in various Shakespearean plays.
  • Dr. Thomas Otto (1969- ): Renowned British physician and researcher in the field of infectious diseases, who has made significant contributions to public health.

Coat of Arms: The Otto family coat of arms features a shield divided into quarters, with symbols representing strength, integrity, and prosperity. The crest is adorned with a lion rampant, symbolising courage and nobility.

Variants: Variants of the surname Otto include Ott, Ottoway, and Ottersen.

Legacy: The Otto surname has left a lasting impact on British society through the accomplishments of various notable bearers in fields such as industry, the arts, and academia. The family's commitment to excellence and contribution to the nation's cultural tapestry have earned them a place in the history of Britain.

There are approximately 856 people named Otto in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,344th most common surname in Britain. Around 13 in a million people in Britain are named Otto.

Region of origin: Europe

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Christian
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Ryan
  • Stephen

Female

  • Alison
  • Amanda
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Jane
  • Janet
  • Joyce
  • Julie
  • Louise
  • Lucy
  • Maria
  • Sarah
  • 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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