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Last Name Getty

What is the origin of the last name Getty?

The surname "Getty" has multiple possible origins. One origin is from the English surname "Gettys," which is derived from the Old Norse personal name "Geitir" or "Gestir," meaning "guest" or "stranger." Over time, this name evolved into "Gettir" and later transformed into "Gettys." The name "Getty" is a variation of "Gettys." Another possible origin is linked to the Irish surname "Geddis" or "Geddes." This name originates from the Gaelic personal name "Gombeadh" or "Gobban," meaning "blacksmith" or "shoemaker." Through Anglicization, the name transformed into "Geddis" or "Geddes," and "Getty" is also considered a derivative. Please note that surnames can have multiple origins and variations, and the information provided here represents common theories but may not apply to all individuals with the surname "Getty."

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Getty

The meaning and origin of the last name Getty

The surname Getty is of Scottish origin and is believed to have derived from the medieval Gaelic name Mac Ghetti. "Mac" means "son of," and "Ghetti" is thought to be a variant of the name Gitti or Getti. It is likely that the name Getti started as a nickname given to someone who was known for their physical or personal characteristics, such as having a strong grip or being determined. Over time, the name Mac Ghetti evolved into Getty. The Scottish clan Mac Ghetti was associated with the area of Badenoch in the eastern Highlands of Scotland. As the clan members migrated to different regions, they often adopted the Mac Getty or Getty form of the name. Today, the surname Getty can be found across various countries, reflecting the diverse history of the clan's descendants.

Geographical distribution of the last name Getty

The last name Getty is of Scottish origin and has a relatively low frequency in relation to other surnames. The geographical distribution of the Getty surname is predominantly concentrated in the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Getty can be found in Pennsylvania, particularly in areas such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Additional notable pockets of the Getty surname can be found in states like California, Florida, and Illinois. In the United Kingdom, the highest concentration of the Getty surname is in Scotland, particularly in areas such as Glasgow and Edinburgh. England also has a significant number of individuals with the Getty last name, mainly in the regions of London and Kent. Outside of these primary countries, the Getty surname can be found in smaller numbers in countries such as Canada, Australia, and Ireland.

Variants and spellings of the last name Getty

The last name Getty has a few variations and spellings. One common variation is Gatty, which is believed to have originated as a phonetic spelling of Getty. Another variation is Gettie, with an additional "i" added at the end. Other less common variations include Ghetti and Gietty, where the "t" and "i" are interchanged. Additionally, there might be regional and cultural variations of the name based on pronunciation and spelling customs. These variations may include Gehty, Gethy, Gitti, or Gitty. It's important to note that the spelling of surnames can vary over time due to changes in language, migration, or personal choice. As a result, individuals with the last name Getty may come across these different variations in historical records or encounter people with similar sounding surnames using different spellings.

Famous people with the last name Getty

The Getty family is a prominent name associated with great wealth and immense philanthropy. One of the most well-known figures is J. Paul Getty, an American industrialist and art collector who founded the Getty Oil Company. He amassed an enormous fortune and became the world's richest private citizen during his time. His son, J. Paul Getty Jr., continued his father's legacy in the art world, establishing the J. Paul Getty Trust, which oversees the acclaimed Getty Museum in Los Angeles. Additionally, John Paul Getty III, the grandson of J. Paul Getty Sr., gained fame and unfortunate notoriety when he was kidnapped in 1973. His dramatic and highly-publicized ordeal captivated the world. Despite the tragic event, the Getty name remains synonymous with art, philanthropy, and unimaginable wealth.

Genealogical research on the last name Getty

The Getty surname has an interesting genealogical history. The name is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic word "giùididh," meaning hostile or ill-tempered, which later evolved to "geididh" and then "getti." The first instances of the name can be traced back to the 12th century, when it was primarily found in the region around Aberdeen, Dundee, and Angus. Over time, some branches of the Getty family migrated to other parts of Scotland, such as Fife, Stirling, and Edinburgh. By the 18th and 19th centuries, members of the Getty family began to seek opportunities abroad, particularly in the United States and Canada. Today, the name can still be found in various parts of Scotland as well as among Scottish descendants worldwide, often spelled differently due to anglicization or regional pronunciation. Genealogical research on the Getty surname offers a fascinating insight into the centuries-long journey of this Scottish family.

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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