RABBITTE
Rabbitte
Origin and Meaning Rabbitte is an Anglo-Saxon surname of English and Irish origins. The English surname is derived from the Middle English word "rabet" or "rabet," which means "robber" or "one who robs." In contrast, the Irish surname comes from the Gaelic name "Ó Rabhartaigh," which means "descendant of Rabhartach," a personal name that means "lively" or "warlike."
History The Rabbitte surname has a long history in both England and Ireland. In England, it likely originated as a nickname for someone who exhibited characteristics associated with a robber or thief. This could point to a person's profession or perhaps a more metaphorical interpretation, such as someone who was daring or cunning.
In Ireland, the Rabbitte surname is found predominantly in the Connacht region, particularly in County Galway. The family is said to be descended from a chieftain named Rabhartach, who would have lived during ancient times.
Notable People
- Pat Rabbitte (1949-): An Irish politician who has served as a member of the Irish Parliament and held ministerial positions in the Irish government.
- Peter Rabbitte (1920-2005): A British artist known for his surrealist paintings and sculptures.
Variants Variants of the Rabbitte surname include Rabitt, Rabbits, and Rabitte.
There are approximately 95 people named Rabbitte in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Rabbitte.