Pettis

Pettis is a surname of English origin, derived from the medieval given name "Petyt," a diminutive of the name "Peter," meaning "rock" or "stone." The surname Pettis is primarily found in England and has ancient roots in the country.

Origins:

The surname Pettis can be traced back to early medieval England, where it was first recorded in historical documents. The name gradually evolved from Petyt to Pettit and eventually to Pettis over the centuries. It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone small or insignificant, perhaps a term of endearment for a child.

Distribution:

The surname Pettis is relatively uncommon in modern-day Britain, with most bearers found in specific regions, including Yorkshire and Essex. However, Pettis families have spread to various parts of the world due to migration and the diaspora.

Variants:

Variants of the Pettis surname include Petis, Petite, and Pettit. These variations may have emerged as individuals moved to different regions or due to phonetic spelling changes over time.

Notable Bearers:

  • John Pettis (1785–1874): A British inventor known for his contributions to the textile industry.
  • Alice Pettis (1902–1989): A renowned British artist and sculptor, known for her innovative use of materials.
  • Thomas Pettis (1920–2005): A prominent political figure who served in the British Parliament during the mid-20th century.

Legacy:

The Pettis surname carries a sense of heritage and tradition for those who bear it. While not as widespread as some other surnames, the Pettis family name continues to hold significance for its descendants and remains a part of British genealogy and history.

In conclusion, the surname Pettis is a unique and historical English name that has endured through generations, reflecting the rich tapestry of British surnames rooted in the country's past.

There are approximately 116 people named Pettis in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Pettis.

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
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • Darren
  • David
  • Gary
  • James
  • Jason
  • Leonard
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Reginald
  • Sean
  • Warren

Female

  • Bridget
  • Caroline
  • Charlotte
  • Cheryl
  • Dawn
  • Denise
  • Emma
  • Janette
  • Lisa
  • Marjorie
  • Patricia
  • Sally
  • Susan
  • 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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