What is the origin of the last name Todd?
Countries of origin for the last name Todd
The last name Todd has a long history and interesting etymology. Here are some of the facts available about this surname:
1. Origin: The last name Todd is of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word “todde,” which referred to a fox or a bushy head of hair. This suggests that it could have started as a nickname for someone with red hair or who had fox-like characteristics.
2. Geographical Distribution: Today, the surname Todd is most commonly found in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It has spread with English-speaking populations, particularly those who migrated from England to these countries.
3. Historical Significance: The surname Todd can be traced back to medieval times in England. It was recorded in various spellings, including Todde, Tode, and Tood. The earliest known reference to the surname dates back to the 13th century in Yorkshire, England.
4. Famous Bearers: Throughout history, there have been notable individuals with the last name Todd. For instance, Thomas Todd was an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court in the early 19th century. Additionally, Andrew Todd, born in 1791, was an American politician and lawyer who served as a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania.
5. Variations: Variations of the last name Todd include Tod, Tood, and Toddman. These variations might have emerged due to regional dialects or transcription errors over time.
6. Popularity: In the United States, the popularity of the surname Todd has fluctuated over the years. According to U.S. Census data, it peaked in the late 1970s and early 1980s, possibly influenced by cultural trends or popular figures with the name during that period.
7. Occupational Name: While the exact occupational meaning of the name Todd is uncertain, it is speculated that it could have referred to a person engaged in some form of fox-hunting or fur trading activity.
8. DNA Analysis: Genetic studies can provide further insights into the origins and migration patterns of individuals with the last name Todd. However, specific DNA analysis and research specifically focused on the surname Todd is limited or unknown at present.
Despite the availability of these facts, the full story and significance behind the last name Todd still remain somewhat mysterious. While further research and continued exploration may uncover more details about its origins and prominence, the precise origins and exact narrative surrounding this surname may always retain an element of intrigue and speculation.
Interesting facts about the last name Todd
- The surname Todd is of Scottish origin.
- It is derived from the medieval English personal name “Toda,” meaning “fox” or “clever.”
- The name Todd is primarily found in Scotland, England, and Ireland.
- Historically, the Todd surname was commonly associated with the region of Fife in Scotland.
- There are variations of the name Todd, including Tod, Todde, and Toade.
- The surname Todd has been recorded in various spellings throughout history, including Tod, Todt, Tode, and Todde.
- Several prominent individuals with the surname Todd have made significant contributions in different fields, such as literature, medicine, and entertainment.
- The popularity of the name Todd has spread beyond the English-speaking world, with Todd being a relatively common surname in countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
- In terms of frequency, the surname Todd ranks 441st in Scotland, 1,408th in England, and 7,755th in the United States.
- There are notable places named after the surname Todd, such as Todd County in Kentucky, United States, and Todd River in Australia.
Name Rank
#460
There are around 71759 people with the last name Todd in the US