Otto Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Otto come from? What does the surname Otto mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Otto and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Otto Origin: What does the last name Otto mean?
The surname Otto is of German origin and has also been found in Dutch, Hungarian, Danish, and Swedish populations. According to YourRoots data, the Otto surname first appeared in German records around the early 15th century. The history of the Otto surname shows significant growth in Germany from the 15th to the 18th centuries, with family records also emerging in the United States during this period.
YourRoots data confirms the global spread of the Otto surname, with a notable presence in the United States by the 20th century. The surname Otto remains prominent in various countries, including Germany. This surname has a rich history and continues to be prevalent in different regions, showcasing its enduring legacy across generations and cultures.
Otto Last Name History: Where did the last name Otto come from?
Origin of Otto Surname: Where does the last name Otto originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Otto first appeared in records from Germany around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Otto spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Otto: What does the Otto surname history look like in the early days?
The Otto surname started growing significantly in Germany from the 15th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Otto family records in the United States, indicating a spread of the surname during this period.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Otto surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Otto surname grew significantly in the United States. The Otto surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including Germany, based on YourRoots data.
Explore Otto last name heritage and Otto surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Otto Surame?
Miranda Otto
Miranda Otto (born Dec 16, 1967) is an Australian actress known for her roles in major films like "The Lord of the Rings" series. She began acting in Australia before gaining Hollywood's attention in the 1990s. Otto's breakthrough role came in the 1991 film "The Girl Who Came Late," earning her critical acclaim. She continued to star in various films, showcasing her versatility and talent. Otto's portrayal of Éowyn in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy solidified her place in pop culture history. With a successful career spanning decades, Otto remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Kristin Otto
Kristin Otto (February 7, 1966) is a former German swimmer known for her incredible success at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. She made history as the first woman to win six gold medals at a single Olympics, setting world records in freestyle events. Otto's career was marked by numerous championships and accolades, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest swimmers of her time. After retiring, she transitioned to a career in sports reporting and continues to inspire fans with her remarkable achievements in the pool.
Barry Otto
Barry Otto (born 1941) is an Australian actor known for his roles in films such as Strictly Ballroom, The Great Gatsby, and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole. Starting his career in amateur theatre, Otto quickly rose to fame for his versatile acting skills. He comes from a family of artists and has a daughter, Miranda, who followed in his footsteps. Otto's talent has earned him an AACTA Award and nominations for his outstanding performances in various films. Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2018, Otto's legacy in the entertainment industry remains strong.
Nicolaus Otto
Nicolaus August Otto (10 Jun 1832 – 26 Jan 1891) was a German engineer known for inventing the compressed charge internal combustion engine, leading to the modern internal combustion engine. His work revolutionized the automotive industry, paving the way for the engines we use today. Born in Germany, Otto's innovations have had a lasting impact on transportation and technology worldwide. His legacy lives on in every vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine.
Jim Otto
James Edwin Otto (January 5, 1938 – May 19, 2024) was an American football legend known for his 15-season career as a center with the Oakland Raiders in the AFL and NFL. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980, Otto was a key player on the AFL All-Time Team and NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. Overcoming numerous surgeries, including a leg amputation, Otto's dedication and resilience made him a beloved figure in football history.
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