Surname Dott - Meaning and Origin
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Dott: What does the surname Dott mean?
The last name Dott is of Scottish origin and it primarily originates from the region of Berwickshire, an ancient Scottish county bordering on England. It is derived from the medieval personal name "Doth", which is a diminutive of "Dorothy". Thus, the surname Dott initially emerged as a patronymic name, indicating sonship or descent. In this case, a person named "Dott" would be understood as "son of Doth" or "descendant of Doth". Over time, as names evolved, the title passed on from generation to generation turning into a family surname. Like many surnames, the spelling and pronunciation of Dott may have changed over the centuries. The prevalence and distribution of the Dott surname have varied, with it being more common in some regions and virtually absent in others. While the exact origins and initial meanings can't always be traced with certainty, surnames like Dott still provide unique insights into the linguistic, cultural, and historical past of the bearers' ancestors.
Order DNA origin analysisDott: Where does the name Dott come from?
The surname Dott is derived from the ancient Norse personal name, "Dot," meaning "proud" or "haughty." Its origins can be traced back to the Viking era, where the Norsemen settled in Scotland between the 8th and 15th centuries. It is a patronymic surname, traditionally created by adding "s" or "son" to the father's name. The term "Dott" literally translates to "Dot's child" or "Dot's son."
The Dott surname is more common in Scotland and Northern Ireland, due to the Viking settlements and influence there. It is particularly prevalent in regions such as Caithness and Orkney, where Viking influence was quite significant. However, over the years, people with this surname can now be found across the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and Canada, among others. Modern variations of the surname, including Dot, Dotte, Dotts, and Dhot, have further increased the distribution of people with this name internationally. Despite this, Dott remains fairly uncommon but continues to illustrate the historic Viking influence in certain parts of the world.
Variations of the surname Dott
The surname Dott is relatively rare and is of Scottish origin, particularly found in the region of Perthshire. Variations are few and could include Dot, Dotts, Dotte, or Dott's. However, these are much less common and may be more likely due to an error in recording. Some say it may also be of Dutch or German origin, where it could be spelled as Dotz or Dötz.
Moreover, it could also have infrequently been spelled as Dhot or even Thott. The variations for the Dott surname are seemingly more frequent when traced back to its originating forename, which appears to be the personal name Doht, Dot or Dott, which were once common names in Scotland during medieval times. Surnames from this period were often based on a father’s name, so children of men named Doht, Dot, or Dott could potentially have different spelling variations for their surname. Through time and evolving language, phonetic changes, and regional dialect influences, these variations could additionally exist as Dought, Doutt, or Douht.
To view an extensive list of spelling variations, genealogical records could provide a comprehensive source.
Famous people with the name Dott
- Christopher Dott: Professional Golfer
- Virginia Dott: Acclaimed film producer and director
- Henry Dott: Influential entrepreneur and philanthropist
- Lisa Dott: Award-winning screenwriter
- Jamie Dott: Professional soccer player
- Bridget Dott: Famous Olympic hurdler
- Abigail Dott: Well-known ballet dancer
- Pippa Dott: Singer and songwriter
- Norman Dott: International lawyer
- Richard Dott: Renowned classical pianist