Watts Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Watts come from? What does the surname Watts mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Watts and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Watts Origin: What does the last name Watts mean?
The surname Watts originates from England, specifically in the United Kingdom, with records dating back to the 14th century. It is believed to have derived from the Old English term for a metalworker, similar to the occupational surname Smith. Over time, the Watts surname has spread globally, with a significant presence in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. In the United States, it became more prevalent from the 17th century onwards, surpassing its frequency in the United Kingdom by the 18th century.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Watts surname in the United Kingdom, with a steady expansion to other countries like the United States. Today, the surname is found in various regions worldwide, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution. The evolution of the Watts surname reflects a rich history and cultural significance, with connections to diverse communities across the globe.
Watts Last Name History: Where did the last name Watts come from?
Origin of Watts Surname: Where does the last name Watts originate from?
Our YourRoots data indicates that the surname Watts was first documented in England, specifically in the United Kingdom, around the start of the 14th century. This information is solely based on the exact spelling of "Watts" within the YourRoots database and doesn't take into account other possible sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Watts: What does the Watts surname history look like in the early days?
The surname Watts stayed predominantly linked to the United Kingdom from the 14th to the 16th century, according to YourRoots data. However, from the 17th century, the frequency of the Watts surname began to rise significantly in the United States. The data shows a substantial volume of Watts family records in the United States from this period, indicating a shift and growth in the surname's prevalence.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Watts surname today?
By the 18th century, the United States surpassed the United Kingdom in terms of the volume of records with the Watts surname. This trend continued through the 19th and into the 20th century. Today, the Watts surname is primarily found in the United States, but it also appears in other regions across the globe. Based on the YourRoots data, the Watts surname has a significant presence in several countries, including but not limited to the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Explore Watts last name heritage and Watts surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Watts Surame?
Naomi Watts
Naomi Ellen Watts (born 28 Sep 1968) is a British actress known for her work in films like "Mulholland Drive," "King Kong," and "The Impossible." She has been nominated for two Academy Awards for her performances. Watts has also appeared in TV series like "Twin Peaks" and "The Loudest Voice." Outside of acting, she has been a UN ambassador and advocate for various causes. Watts is recognized for her portrayals of characters facing loss and suffering, often in remakes and independent films with dark themes. She has been praised for her beauty by magazines like People and Maxim.
Alan Watts
Alan Wilson Watts (6 Jan 1915 – 16 Nov 1973) was a British and American writer, speaker, and "philosophical entertainer" known for popularizing Buddhist, Taoist, and Hindu philosophy for Western audiences. Watts wrote over 25 books on religion and philosophy, influencing the Beat Generation and counterculture movements. He explored human consciousness and psychedelics in works like "The Joyous Cosmology." Watts gained posthumous popularity through radio broadcasts and online platforms like YouTube and Spotify. Born in Kent, England, his interest in Eastern spirituality led him to Buddhism at a young age. Watts's unique approach to philosophy continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Charlie Watts
Charles Robert Watts (June 2, 1941 – August 24, 2021) was an English musician best known as the drummer for the Rolling Stones for 58 years. Starting as a graphic artist, Watts developed a passion for jazz and joined the band Blues Incorporated before becoming a member of the Rolling Stones in 1963. Alongside his career with the Stones, he led the Charlie Watts Quintet and performed at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, Watts was revered as one of the greatest drummers of all time, with a lasting impact on the music industry.
Jon Watts
Jonathan Watts (June 28, 1981 - present) is an American film director, producer, and screenwriter best known for directing the Spider-Man films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), including "Homecoming" (2017), "Far From Home" (2019), and "No Way Home" (2021). He has also worked on other projects such as "Clown" (2014), "Cop Car" (2015), and "Wolfs" (2024). Watts studied film at New York University and has directed music videos for artists like Fatboy Slim and Swedish House Mafia. He is married to former talent agent and producer Dianne McGunigle.
Reggie Watts
Reginald Lucien Frank Roger Watts (born Mar 23, 1972) is an American comedian, musician, beatboxer, and actor known for his improvised musical sets using only his voice, a keyboard, and a looping machine. He was the house musician on Comedy Bang! Bang! and The Late Late Show with James Corden. Watts started his career in the band Maktub and gained fame with viral hits like "Fuck Shit Stack". He has released solo EPs and specials, such as "Why Shit So Crazy?" and "A Live at Central Park". Watts' unique blend of music and comedy has garnered him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.
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