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Last Name Cots

What is the origin of the last name Cots?

The surname "Cots" has multiple origins depending on the region from where it is derived. 1. Catalonia (Spain): In Catalan-speaking regions of Spain and southern France, "Cots" is a toponymic surname, originating from a place named Cots or Còt. Examples include Cots de Sogorb in the Valencian Community, Spain, or Cotesté in the Aude department, France. 2. France: In French-speaking regions, "Cots" can be a variant of the surname Cotte, meaning a bag or sack in Old French. It may also have originated from a place named Cots in France, such as Cots en Marne in the Marne department. 3. Occitan (southwestern France): In this language, "Cots" can be a diminutive form of the given name Co(u)t, meaning 'hare.' This surname could also have originated from a place named Cots or Còt. 4. England: In some cases, "Cots" can be an Anglicized form of the Irish surname Mac Uisdeal (anglicized as MacUshty), which means 'son of Ushti.' Ushti was derived from a personal name of Celtic origin meaning 'battle.' However, it is essential to note that this usage is less common compared to the French and Spanish origins. As always, it is crucial to consider regional context when tracing the origins of surnames like Cots, as they may have different meanings and origins in various parts of the world.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Cots

The meaning and origin of the last name Cots

The surname Cots is of Spanish origin, derived from the Latin word "coctus," which means cooked or prepared. Originally, it was an occupational name for a cook or someone who prepared food for others. In some regions of Spain, such as Catalonia and Aragon, it may also have referred to a potter or a maker of earthenware vessels due to the similarity in sound between "coctus" (cooked) and "cocina" (kitchen or cooking vessel). Over time, the surname has been carried by various families throughout Spain and its colonies. Its variations include Cotes, Cote, Coste, among others, depending on regional dialects and spelling conventions. Today, individuals with the surname Cots can be found in numerous countries, reflecting the historical migration patterns of Spanish-speaking peoples over the centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cots

The last name Cots is predominantly found in Spain and its territories, with a significant concentration in the region of Catalonia, especially in Barcelona and its surrounding areas. This surname is also present in other parts of Spain, such as Valencia and Aragon. In addition, there are notable populations bearing the Cots surname in France, particularly in the southwestern region of Occitanie (formerly Languedoc-Roussillon), which shares historical and cultural ties with Catalonia. Smaller groups can also be found in other European countries, as well as in South America, where many Spanish and French immigrants settled during colonial times. The Cots surname has a strong association with the Iberian Peninsula and France, reflecting its deep-rooted history in these regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cots

The surname Cots has various spelling variations that are predominantly found among people of English, French, and Spanish descent. These include Cot(t)s, Cost(e)s, Coats, Coates, Cought(e)s, Kost(e)s, Koats, and Kaotes. The different spellings can be attributed to regional dialects, transcription errors during record keeping, or simple familial preference. For instance, the "t" at the end of Cot(t)s can be dropped in some dialects, leading to Cost(e)s, while Coats and Coates both originate from the Old French word "cote," meaning side or rib, but the former is more common in England while the latter is more common in Scotland. The variations may also be due to migratory patterns of families bearing these names, who adopted local spellings as they settled in new regions.

Famous people with the last name Cots

The Cots family has produced several notable figures across various fields. In the realm of sports, Juan Carlos Coto is a prominent figure in golf, having won multiple tournaments on the Latin American Golf Tour and the European Tour. On the other hand, María José Coto is a renowned Spanish actress, best known for her roles in popular TV series such as "Cuéntame cómo pasó" and "Amar es para siempre." In the scientific community, John E. Cots is recognized for his contributions to the field of genetics, particularly in the area of gene expression analysis. Lastly, Manuel Coto was a Spanish architect who made significant strides in the Modernist movement, with his most famous work being the Church of Santa Maria del Mar in Barcelona. These individuals are testament to the diversity and achievements of those bearing the last name Cots.

Genealogical research on the last name Cots

The surname Cots, with roots traced back to Catalonia, Spain, is primarily associated with Catalan and Aragonese descendants. Originating from the Old French word "cot" meaning 'bed', it likely was used as an occupational name for a bed maker or a nickname for someone who often slept. Early records show the name appearing in documents from the 13th century, such as Ramon Cots in the town of Balaguer in 1276, and Pere Cots in the same location in 1291. Over time, the name spread to other regions in Spain and later France, with significant populations found in places like Catalonia, Aragon, Provence, and Languedoc-Roussillon. Today, the surname Cots is most prevalent in Catalonia, France, and its diaspora communities worldwide.

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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 : 13 June 2025

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