Surname Todd - Meaning and Origin

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J. Todd

Todd: What does the surname Todd mean?

The surname Todd is of Scottish and English origin and is derived from the Middle English word "todde," which means a fox. Many believe that the surname Todd was probably originally given as a nickname to cunning individuals or to red-headed individuals who shared features with a fox. Given its geography, it is widely linked with Northern English, Scottish Lowlands, and Scottish Borders. It could also possibly be an occupational surname referring to people who caught foxes. In the Middle Ages, the hunting of foxes was a common sport among the nobility, and fox pelts were in high demand for making clothing and other items. Thus, this could be another explanation for the origin of the surname. Throughout history, the surname Todd has been subject to several variations depending on the geographical location and era. Regardless, the core symbolism related to the qualities of a fox remains inherent.

Todd: Where does the name Todd come from?

The last name Todd is of Scottish origin, tracing back to the Middle Ages in Northern England and Scotland. It is derived from the nickname for someone thought to resemble a fox, originating from the Middle English word "tod(de)," which means fox. The analogy presumably refers to such characteristics as cunning or perhaps red hair. It is believed that the name may have been given to hunters skilled in tracking and hunting foxes.

Today, the Todd surname is quite common in English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, England, and Australia. In the United States, it is most prevalent in Texas but also has a significant presence in California, Florida, and Illinois. According to Forebears, it is the most common in the United States, ranking 278th, followed by England where it ranks 321st. Despite its Scottish origin, Todd is not in the top 100 common surnames in Scotland. However, it holds a significant rank in Northern Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

Variations of the surname Todd

The surname Todd is said to have originated from the Northern Middle English term "todde," which means "fox." As such, it was most likely originally a nickname for someone who was considered crafty or cunning like a fox.

The most common spelling of the surname is Todd, though there are variations that include Tod, Tadd, and Tadde. These variations are more likely to be found in regions other than the UK, such as North America or Australia.

Additionally, some variations on the surname could include surnames that were derived from "Tod," like Todhunter (meaning fox hunter), Todman, or Todrick. On the other hand, surnames like McTod or O'Tod could be considered variants since they essentially mean "son of Tod."

In some cases, the surname may have been changed slightly when family members migrated to different countries. For example, in Germany or other German-speaking areas, it could have been changed to Todt or Todten. Meanwhile, in Netherlands, Todder might be a variation, while Toda or Todas could be variations in Spanish-speaking regions. These are less likely to be directly related to or descended from the original surname Todd, but they could potentially be derived from the same or a similar source.

Famous people with the name Todd

• Richard Todd: Irish born British actor known for his roles in "The Hasty Heart" and "The Dam Busters".
• Mary Todd Lincoln: Wife of the 16th U.S. President, Abraham Lincoln.
• Thelma Todd: American actress and comedian in the early 20th century.
• David Todd: Astronomer and professor at Amherst College.
• Charles Todd: Pseudonym for the mother-and-son writing team of American mystery novels.
• Craig Todd: Former American football safety in the National Football League.
• Ann Todd: British actress known for 1940s and 1950s films.
• Paul Todd: English former footballer.
• Toddy Todd: American soul singer.
• William Todd (California gold rush): Best known for creating the "Bear Flag" of California.
• Todd Todd: American film producer and director.
• Mark Todd: New Zealand horseman noted for his accomplishments in eventing.
• Michael Todd: American theater and film producer best known for his 1956 production of Around the World in 80 Days.
• Lisa Todd: An actress known for her work on "Hee Haw", "The Mary Tyler Moore Show", and "The Beverly Hillbillies".
• Tom Todd: An Olympic weightlifter representing Canada.
• Tracie Todd: A judge in the Criminal Division of the 10th Judicial Circuit Court in Alabama.
• Olivia Todd: A professional squash player who represents England.
• Harrison Todd: An American actor known for roles in "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," "The Barbarians," and "Missing in Action."
• Stefanie Todd: An American film producer known for her work on "Palm Springs" and "The Lobster."
• Chris Todd: A former professional footballer from England.

Other surnames

TodTodamTodammTodetoderToderasToderesTodoroffTodorovTodorovaTodorovicTodorovskaTodorovskiTodorowTodorowaTodorowicTodorowskiTodrasTodreasTodresTodresewiczTodresseTodrisTodrosTodrusTodrysTodtTödtTodte