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Last Name Coats

What is the origin of the last name Coats?

The last name "Coats" is primarily of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word "cote," which means a coat or a garment. The name was often used as a metonymic occupational surname for someone who made or sold coats, or it could also be a nickname for someone who frequently wore a distinctive coat. Like many surnames, variations of "Coats" can be found in different regions and cultures.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Coats

The meaning and origin of the last name Coats

The surname Coats is of Scottish origin, deriving from an occupation-based name. It is believed to have emerged from a person whose profession involved making or selling coats, indicating a family trade or craft that involved working with fabric or clothing. The name may also have been given to someone who habitually wore or used coats. By suffixing the word "s" to the Middle English term "cote," meaning a cloak or outer garment, the surname Coats came into existence. Over time, variations of the surname developed, including Coate, Cotes, and Cotts. The Coats surname is commonly found in Scotland, particularly in the Lanarkshire region. Individuals bearing this surname have spread across the world, often due to migration and colonization, with branches of Coats families being established in England, Canada, the United States, and other countries. Today, descendants of those who bore the surname Coats can be found globally, honoring their ancestral heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Coats

The surname Coats has a diverse geographical distribution, with concentrations found in various regions around the world. In the United States, the name has a particularly strong presence, with significant populations in states such as Texas, California, Florida, and New York. This can be attributed to historical patterns of migration and settlement. In the United Kingdom, Coats is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in areas such as Lanarkshire and Glasgow, where the renowned Coats family operated a successful thread manufacturing business. Other countries with notable Coats populations include Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where English and Scottish immigrants have played a significant role in the name's distribution. Overall, the surname Coats is widely dispersed, reflecting the migration and settlement patterns of people from various regions of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Coats

The last name Coats has a few variations and spellings depending on the region and historical influences. One common variation is "Cotes," which may have been derived from the Middle English word "cote," meaning a small cottage or shelter. Another variant is "Coates," which is often found in England and Scotland and has origins from the Old English word "cote" or "cot," referring to a small dwelling. Additionally, the name can sometimes be spelled as "Coate" or "Coach," though these variations are relatively less common. It is important to note that name spellings have evolved over time due to changes in pronunciation, dialects, and anglicization. These variations in spelling and pronunciation have resulted in the diversity observed in the last name Coats today.

Famous people with the last name Coats

There are several notable individuals with the last name Coats. Dan Coats stands out as a prominent American politician who served as the Director of National Intelligence under President Donald Trump and also represented Indiana in the United States Senate. His extensive experience in public service has made him a respected figure in American politics. Another well-known name is William Coats, a Scottish economist and historian who focused on the study of monetary systems and the economic history of nations. Coats made significant contributions to the field of economics through his research and writings. Additionally, one cannot forget about John Coats, a renowned figure in the world of finance who has served in various executive positions, including the position of CEO for Glencore Xstrata. Coats' expertise in the mining and natural resources industry has earned him international recognition and praise.

Genealogical research on the last name Coats

The surname "Coats" is of English origin and is derived from the occupational name for a maker or seller of coats, specifically heavy overgarments worn for protection from the elements. The name first appears in written records in the late 13th century. Over the centuries, the name has undergone variations in spelling, including Coate, Cotes, and Coatsworth. Genealogical research suggests that the Coats family originally settled in various regions of England, including Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Northumberland. Additionally, prominent Coats families have also been documented in Scotland, particularly in Lanarkshire. The Coats name gained prominence in the textile industry during the 19th century, notably with the Coats family founding the successful thread manufacturing company "J. & P. Coats Ltd." Researching individual Coats family lines will involve tracing specific branches and delving into local records such as birth, marriage, and census documents to build a comprehensive family history.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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