Surname Tattam - Meaning and Origin
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Tattam: What does the surname Tattam mean?
The surname Tattam is of English origin and is considered rare. Its exact meaning is not clear, primarily because it does not seem to directly translate to a specific word or phrase in Old or Modern English. Like many surnames, it is possibly derived from a geographic location, occupation, nickname, or clan name. However, without concrete historical and etymological evidence, it is challenging to determine the precise meaning. Referring to a professional genealogist or using DNA and records research could potentially provide more insight into the specific origin and meaning of the surname Tattam. Given its rarity, the name Tattam could also be a variant of another surname, which has evolved over time through regional dialects and spelling variations. It's always fascinating to explore the mysteries and stories that our surnames may hold. Genealogy research can provide a meaningful connection to our past and give insight into who we are today.
Order DNA origin analysisTattam: Where does the name Tattam come from?
The last name Tattam is primarily associated with Great Britain and Ireland. It is most common in the West Midlands county of England today, but is also found in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Australia.
In England, the earliest records of the Tattam surname date from the mid-eighteenth century and originate in the towns of Tamworth and Lichfield in the West Midlands. The name may have evolved from the local place name of the same spelling, which comes from the Anglo-Saxon term meaning "the wild apple tree estate".
The Tattam name is also found in Scotland, where it is believed to have developed from the name Thackham. This could have been an occupational name for an apprentice tanner, derived from the Old Scots term "thack", meaning to beat or pound hide.
In Wales, the name also appears to have derived from the local placename of the same spelling. It is likely that the name was brought to the region by people migrating from across Britain or Ireland. In Northern Ireland, local records indicate the Tattam name is most concentrated in County Londonderry.
The last name Tattam is also found in Australia. Records there indicate that it was introduced to the country through migration in the 19th century, most likely from the British Isles.
Overall, the surname Tattam is most commonly concentrated in the West Midlands of England today, with significant concentrations found in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Australia.
Variations of the surname Tattam
The surname Tattam is of English or Anglo-Saxon heritage with its roots in the Old English language. It is derived from the personal name Tatte, which is an old form of the modern English name Matthew. The variant spellings of this family name can be Tatam, Tattem, Tatham, Tatem, Tatom and Tate.
The uncommon surname Tattam has spread from its ancient homeland to countries such as Ireland, New Zealand and even Australia. In Ireland, certain derivative variations of the name could be Tatton, Tattersall and Tatlow. Similarly, in New Zealand, variants include Tattan and Tattersall. Australian variants encompass Tatterson and Tasham.
The geographical landscape is dotted with many hamlets, farms and towns charging officers with the surname Tattam. Examples of these include Tatem in Dorset, Tattershall in Lincolnshire, Tatham in Lancashire and Tatem in Herefordshire.
The Tattam surname is also borne by some notable people including P.G.W. Tatham, a Canadian physicist and engineer, Sir John Tatham, an English soldier of the 19th century and John Tatem, a bishop in the 19th century. These are just some examples of how the surname has been passed down the family lineage to those of us today.
Famous people with the name Tattam
- Lawrence Tattam—Anglican bishop, author, and principal of Adelaide College of Divinity.
- Lisa Tattam—Registered nurse who works in mental health.
- Ben Tattam—Australian rugby league player, played for South Sydney Rabbitohs.
- Jack Tattam—Australian Rules footballer, played for Essendon Football Club of the Australian Football League.
- Chris Tattam—Australian comedian, author, and musician.
- Corinne Tattam— endemic species specialist and conservation program manager.
- Harry Tattam—British canoeist, competed in the 1936 and 1948 Summer Olympics.
- Kathy Tattam—New Zealand journalist and magazine editor.
- Linda Tattam—American novelist and short story writer.
- Terrasi Tattam—Italian fashion designer best known for her avant-garde designs.