What is the origin of the last name Kidd?
Countries of origin for the last name Kidd
The last name Kidd has an interesting history and meaning. The name originates from Old Norse and Old English, making it a cross-cultural name with deep roots. The word “kid” in Old Norse refers to a small goat, and in Old English, it means a young person or child. This linguistic connection suggests a possible association with youthful energy and playfulness.
The surname Kidd is commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic surname “Mac an Bháird,” which translates to “son of the bard” in English. This link to the literary world indicates a historical connection to poetry, storytelling, and the creative arts.
There have been notable individuals with the last name Kidd throughout history who have left their marks in various fields. For instance, Captain William Kidd, also known as Captain Kidd, was a Scottish pirate during the late 17th century. He gained infamy for his alleged acts of piracy in the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean, making him a prominent figure in maritime history.
In addition to its association with piracy, the surname Kidd has also been associated with noble families. One such example is the Kidd Baronetcy of Greenock, which was created in 1922 for Sir James Kidd, a successful businessman and philanthropist. This noble lineage highlights the diverse range of historical figures connected to the name.
Moreover, the name Kidd has gained popularity as a given name, particularly in the United States. People with the surname Kidd often use it as a first name for their children, reflecting its appeal and adaptability as a personal identifier.
Researching the origins of surnames can be complex, as they evolve over time and are influenced by various factors such as migration patterns, cultural assimilation, and language changes. Despite all the information available, there is always a sense of fascination and curiosity surrounding the possibilities of uncovering hidden meanings and connections.
Interesting facts about the last name Kidd
- The surname Kidd originates from a medieval Scottish nickname, derived from the Middle English word “kidde” which means “young goat.”
- It is believed that the name Kidd was initially given as a nickname to someone who had characteristics resembling a young goat, such as agility or playfulness.
- The name Kidd became a hereditary surname in Scotland during the 13th century, and later spread to England and other English-speaking countries.
- One notable individual with the surname Kidd is William Kidd, also known as Captain Kidd, who was an infamous Scottish pirate in the late 17th century. He was eventually captured and executed in England.
- In addition to its Scottish origins, the surname Kidd also has Jewish roots. It is derived from the Hebrew name “Yehudah,” which means “praised” or “thankful.”
- The surname Kidd is relatively rare, ranking at around 3,000th in the list of most common surnames in the United States.
- In modern times, the name Kidd is not confined to any specific profession or social group, and individuals with this surname can be found in various fields and walks of life.
- Interestingly, the surname Kidd has been used as inspiration for fictional characters in literature, such as the famous detective Adrian Monk’s assistant, Natalie Teeger, whose maiden name is Kidd.
- The surname Kidd has inspired various variations and spelling adaptations, such as Kydd, Kidds, Kiddy, and others.
- Genealogical records show that the surname Kidd has historical branches in different regions, including Scotland, England, Australia, and the United States.
Name Rank
#1060
There are around 33186 people with the last name Kidd in the US