Last Name Totems

The last name Totems is believed to have originated in the Netherlands or Scandinavia. The surname may have derived from the Dutch word "totem," meaning "totem pole," which were traditional wooden sculptures made by indigenous peoples of North America. It is also possible that the name Totems has Germanic or Norse origins, as it may have been used as a nickname for someone who was tall or slender. Over time, the surname Totems may have evolved from these various linguistic and cultural influences.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Totems

The meaning and origin of the last name Totems

The surname Totems is believed to have originated from the Dutch word "lotheem," meaning 'lies hot water.' It is thought to have other possible origins, including the Dutch word "toten," meaning 'to kill' or 'to die,' or the French word "totem," referring to a spiritual being or symbol believed by some indigenous peoples to have a special relationship with an individual or group. The surname Totems may have been used to describe someone who lived near a hot spring or who was involved in the death of something or someone. It could also indicate a familial connection to a specific totem or spiritual being. Today, the surname Totems is rare and may be found in various regions around the world, particularly in Europe.

Geographical distribution of the last name Totems

The last name Totems is relatively rare and is primarily found in the United States and Canada. In the US, the majority of individuals with the surname Totems reside in the states of California, New York, and Washington. There are also smaller concentrations of Totems families in Texas, Florida, and Illinois. In Canada, the Totems surname is most common in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. The name may have Indigenous origins, as totem symbols are often associated with Native American and First Nations cultures in North America. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Totems indicates a relatively small and dispersed population, with a possible connection to Indigenous heritage in both the US and Canada.

Variants and spellings of the last name Totems

The last name Totems can have various variations and spellings, depending on regional differences, immigration patterns, and family traditions. Some common variations of Totems include Toteme, Toutems, Toteems, and Totemz. These variations may have originated from different countries or cultures, leading to unique spellings over time. Additionally, surnames are often subject to changes in spelling due to errors in documentation or transcription. Families with the last name Totems may opt to spell it differently for personal or aesthetic reasons, such as Tottams or Totims. Ultimately, the variations and spellings of the last name Totems reflect the diverse ways in which individuals choose to identify themselves and their familial heritage.

Famous people with the last name Totems

There are no famous people with the last name Totems. The last name Totems does not appear to belong to any well-known individuals in the public eye. It is possible that there are individuals with this surname who lead private lives or who have not achieved significant recognition in their respective fields. The surname Totems is unique and uncommon, making it challenging to find any notable figures associated with it. However, it is always possible that someone with the last name Totems may emerge in the future and make a name for themselves in their chosen profession or industry. Until then, the Totems family name remains relatively unknown in terms of famous personalities.

Genealogical research on the last name Totems

The Totems surname is of Native American origin and likely originated from a family or clan that identified with a specific totem animal. The totem animal served as a guardian spirit or symbol for the family, representing their characteristics or values. In some Native American cultures, totems were also believed to provide guidance and protection for individuals within the family. The surname Totems may have been passed down through generations within a particular tribe or community, reflecting the importance of ancestral connections and cultural identity. Research on the Totems surname could involve tracing lineage back to specific tribes or regions where totem animals held significance, as well as exploring traditional beliefs and practices associated with totemism. Today, individuals with the surname Totems may carry on the legacy of their ancestors by honoring their heritage and maintaining a connection to their tribal roots.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "totems"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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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