WHITTEN
Whitten
Whitten is a surname of British origin, deriving from the Old English personal name Wihtwine, meaning "war friend" or "battle friend". The name gradually evolved into Whitten over the centuries.
Origins
The Whitten surname is believed to have originated in the Anglo-Saxon period, with records showing its presence in various regions across England. The name may have been bestowed upon individuals known for their prowess in battle or for their loyalty to a leader.
Distribution and Variants
The Whitten surname is not as common as some other British surnames but can be found in different parts of the United Kingdom and beyond. Variants of the name include Whilton, Widden, and Witten.
Notable Individuals
Notable individuals bearing the surname Whitten include:
- Don Whitten (1925–2004): A British-born Canadian professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League.
- Chris Whitten (b. 1959): A renowned British drummer known for his work with various musicians and bands.
Cultural Significance
The surname Whitten, like many British surnames, carries historical significance and may provide clues to a person's ancestry or heritage. It connects individuals to their familial roots and can signify a shared identity among those who bear the name.
In summary, the surname Whitten is one that has ancient origins in the British Isles and has been borne by individuals who have made notable contributions in various fields. Its etymology reflects qualities such as camaraderie and loyalty, embodying traits that have shaped British history and culture.
There are approximately 812 people named Whitten in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,662nd most common surname in Britain. Around 12 in a million people in Britain are named Whitten.
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
- Anthony
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
- Warren
- William
Female
- Ann
- Caroline
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jennifer
- Julie
- Margaret
- Marjorie
- Mary
- Olive
- Sarah
- Valerie
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.