Surname Curtiss - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'C'
Curtiss: What does the surname Curtiss mean?
The surname Curtiss is derived from the personal name "Curtis", which has its origin from the Old French "curteis" meaning "refined" or "accomplished". Such names evolved over centuries where they were often used to indicate a person's trade, residence, or any distinguishing feature. Thus, the surname Curtiss was often given to someone who was refined, courteous or well-bred. It later became a popular baptismal name due to St. Curtis, also known as St. Curtius, a 4th century martyr in Rome. Despite its French origins, the surname is more common in England and the United States today. With spelling variations including Curtis, Curtyss, Curtys, and others, the name Curtiss has been existent for many centuries, with the first recorded spelling of the family name dating back to 1332 in London, England. Over the years, there were many notable individuals with this surname, including Glenn Hammond Curtiss, an American aviation pioneer who is considered the father of naval aviation.
Order DNA origin analysisCurtiss: Where does the name Curtiss come from?
The surname Curtiss is of English origin, derived from the personal name Curtis or Curt. These names were originally bestowed as a nickname to someone who was 'courteous' or 'refined', originating from the Old French 'curteis' or 'curteise'. The spelling ‘Curtiss’ is a variant of ‘Curtis.’
While the name Curtis is historically prevalent in England, the variant 'Curtiss' primarily found its roots in America. It was given significant spotlight by aviation pioneer Glenn Hammond Curtiss, helping contribute to its recognition and use.
According to census records, most people with the last name Curtiss live in the USA, specifically in states like California, New York, and Florida. However, it also maintains a presence in England, Australia, and Canada albeit with a much lesser degree. It's less common in the rest of the world. Despite this, the surname Curtiss is globally recognized, mainly due to its association with the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company, a major aircraft manufacturer during the first half of the 20th century.
Variations of the surname Curtiss
The surname Curtiss, often associated with English origin, has several variations, alternative spellings, and closely related surnames. Some of these include Curtis, Curtice, Curtize, Cortis, Cortes, Kurtis, Curtisson, and Curteis.
Additionally, other spellings include Kertis, Kurtiss, Curtes, and Kirtiss. These variations could possibly have emerged as results of regional dialects or phonetic interpretation over time and with migration.
The surname Curtis itself is believed to have two origins. In England, it derives from the Old French "curteis" meaning "refined" or "accomplished" and was used as a nickname before it became a surname. Alternatively, in Ireland, Curtis is an anglicization of the Gaelic Ó Coirtéis. This in turn was a patronymic surname derived from the personal name "Cortés," meaning "courteous." This may account for some of the variations.
Earlier variations of the name include the Latin "Curtius," found in early medieval documents.
Each form of the name Curtiss carries its own unique history and lineage, making it an interesting surname with numerous variations and potential origins.
Famous people with the name Curtiss
- Glenn Hammond Curtiss: An American aviation and motorcycling pioneer, who is known to have contributed significantly in developing the U.S. aircraft industry.
- Catherine Curtiss: A health educator, nutritionist, and author.
- Charles Curtiss: An American politician and a member of the Democratic Party, known for his service in the Missouri House of Representatives.
- Rhonda R. Curtiss: An American astrophysicist at Princeton University, best known for her work in astronomical spectroscopy.
- Frank Curtiss: A British Labour Party politician, who served as a Member of Parliament in the UK for several years in the mid-20th century.
- Henry W. Curtiss: An American Republican politician from Connecticut.
- Julie Curtiss: A contemporary French-American artist, recognized for her work in painting and sculpture.
- Edwin S. Curtiss: A United States Army brigadier general during World War II. Please note that the fame of some of these individuals may be limited to specific fields or regions.