Surname Fetterer - Meaning and Origin
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Fetterer: What does the surname Fetterer mean?
The last name Fetterer is of German origin, and is derived from the Old Germanic name "Fetuwinger," which comes from "fetu," meaning "a messenger" or "a runner." Fetterer literally translates to "one from the messenger family."
It is thought to be derived from the Middle High German word "fette," meaning "to run, to fetch, to transport." Fetterer is a very uncommon name, but those who bear it may share a common ancestor in the Middle Ages.
The Fetterer family were traditionally messengers in Germany and Austria, and were some of the earliest known postal workers. This was a respected profession, and these individuals held an important role in their community. They were the first to bring news from distant regions, and even played a part in the exchange of goods among southern German states.
Today, those with the last name Fetterer can trace their ancestry back to these messengers, and carry on this rich family history. More than anything, it ensures that this unique and honorable legacy will live on for generations to come.
Order DNA origin analysisFetterer: Where does the name Fetterer come from?
The last name Fetterer is most commonly found in Germany, though it can be found elsewhere in the world as well. Records of the surname go as far back as the 12th century, though at that time the name was spelled Fetterrer or Vetterrer. In the Middle Ages this family was found in Bavaria, where it is still very common today.
In the modern era, Fetterer is typically associated with German-speaking countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Liechtenstein. In addition, many people bearing this name have immigrated to other countries, particularly the United States, Canada, Australia, and across Europe.
The etymology of Fetterer is believed to come from the German word "Fetten," which means "to fatten" or "to make fat." This likely implies that the original holders of the Fetterer name were involved in the stockbreeding industry of raising and fattening animals, most likely pigs. It is also believed that Fetterer may be an occupational surname, referring to those who supplied people with objects made of fat, such as candles or oils.
Today, the Fetterer last name is still popular, especially in Germany. With the growth of the internet, Fetterer's can now easily track down details of their ancestry, such as the original spelling of the name, through genealogical websites.
Variations of the surname Fetterer
The surname Fetterer can have a few different variants and spellings, but all of them share the same origin. Generally, more modern versions are spelled just Fetter, Fetterman, Fetterer, Fettman, Fette, and Fetters. Less modern spellings include Fedderer, Feddar, Fethter, Fedder, Foderer, Vetter, Vetterman, and Vetters. For a few Europeans, the German spelling is Fetterer, whereas in Austrian it is Fötter.
The variations in spelling are likely due to various dialects throughout Europe, as different regions have different pronunciations for certain names. Fetterer/Fetters is a fairly common last name in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. This surname is likely derived from the German word feldterer, which refers to a bird hunter or trapper. Over time, these names have become more modernised and spread throughout various regions of the world, though all share the same root and meaning.
In the United States, the surname Fetterer is most commonly found in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Wisconsin. In the United Kingdom, the surname is primarily found in Scotland and England. Additionally, the surname Fetterer is also quite popular in New Zealand, Australia and Canada.
Famous people with the name Fetterer
- Ron Fetterer: Ron Fetterer is an cornerback who played in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Villanova and was drafted in the fifth round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts.
- Shane Fetterer: Shane Fetterer is a former starting pitcher in Major League Baseball who played from 1999 to 2000 for the Anaheim Angels.
- Claire Fetterer: Claire Fetterer is a professional soccer player who currently plays for the Washington Spirit of the National Women's Soccer League.
- Duncan Fettercw: Duncan Fettercw is an Australian professional golfer who currently plays on the Australasian and OneAsia Tours.
- Keith Fetterer: Keith Fetterer is an American-born composer, singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. He is known for producing and writing a variety of songs for various artists.
- Virginie Fetterer: Virginie Fetterer is a former French Olympic and world champion ice dancer. She won a gold medal at the 2003 World Championships and a bronze medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics.
- Konrad Fetterer: Konrad Fetterer is an German actor and musician. He is best known for his roles in the films "Die Mauer," "Der Untergang," and "Wir waren Könige."
- William Fetterer: William Fetterer is an American director, storyboard artist, and producer. He is well-known for his work on films such as "Rango," "Despicable Me," and "The Croods."
- Harry Fetteer: Harry Fetteer is a British-born musician most known for being the lead guitarist in the progressive rock band Big Boat.
- Jeff Fetterer: Jeff Fetterer is an American photographer and visual artist specializing in both film and digital mediums. He has gained recognition for his documentary-style images captured in some of the most remote places around the world.