Surname Stotz - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'S'
Stotz: What does the surname Stotz mean?
The surname Stotz is of German origin. It is believed to have originated as a nickname for a proud or pompous person, derived from the Middle High German word "stolz" which means "proud" or "haughty." Over time, the 'l' was softened or lost entirely in some dialects, leading to variations such as Stotz or Stotzer. It could also have occupational roots, referring to someone who worked as a well-builder, based on an Old High German word, "stotzen," meaning “to prop up” or “support”. In this context, it might be related to the construction of mines or wells. Like many surnames, the exact meaning can depend on regional use and family history. Some family branches could have different origins for the same surname. So, while it's generally accepted that Stotz has German roots and refers to someone proud, haughty or possibly a well-builder, the exact connotation might differ from one family to another.
Order DNA origin analysisStotz: Where does the name Stotz come from?
The last name Stotz is primarily found in Germany and northern Switzerland. The name is one of the oldest surnames in both countries, having originated as the Germanic personal name "Stutz," which translates as "brave or strong." The early spelling of the name was Stut or Stuutz; gradually over time, it became Stotz.
In Germany today, Stotz is among the 1,000 most common surnames, according to genealogical research. Most families who carry the name can trace their lineage back to the Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, and the Bavarian Palatinate. Other concentrations are found in Franconia and Swabia.
In Switzerland, the name Stotz is more prevalent in the northern cantons—especially along the German border. This area is far less populated than other parts of the country.
Emigration of families bearing the Stotz last name also spread out in the late 19th century to the United States, Canada, South America, Africa, and Australia. In America, descendants of this surname primarily live in the Midwest and the eastern part of the country.
The name Stotz is still in common usage today due to its long history in Germany and Switzerland, and its relatively large presence in countries like America and Canada.
Variations of the surname Stotz
The surname "Stotz" has a variety of variants, spellings and related surnames. Variants of the surname include "Stotts" and "Stottsman", while spellings vary among "Stutz", "Stuetz", and "Stoots". Other related surnames may include "Stotesbery", "le Stoit", "Stutzman", and "Stoutz".
Many of these spellings and surnames are derived from a Germanic origin and mean "one who stands out or is at the forefront". It was generally used as an occupational name for someone who lived by a toll station, a type of tax collection point or who made a living by selling goods for travelers at such points.
In addition, certain variants of Stotz have distinct meanings in different languages. In Dutch, "Stotz" means "frank, open, straightforward". In Welsh, "Stotz" means "strong man, manly, or well-built".
The most prominent bearer of the surname was Hans Stotz, a German Renaissance master copper-smith, renowned for his work creating dishes, pots, and fire buckets. He was succeeded by his son, Georg Reinbold Stotz, who also produced masterpieces ornamental works, particularly locks and door frames.
The Stotz surname continues to be seen in various parts of the world today, with higher prevalence in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.
Famous people with the name Stotz
- Pete Stotz: songwriter, recording artist, and independent radio programmer from the USA
- Michael Stotz: an American former eventer who won team gold and an individual bronze medal at the 2004 Olympic Games
- Ernie Stotz: an American professional basketball player who spent the majority of his career in the National Basketball Association (NBA)
- Harry Stotz: a German-American Olympic rower, educated at Harvard University
- Elizabeth Stotz: an American Professor of Law at Willamette University
- Collins Stotz: a former professional basketball player who spent three seasons in the NBA
- Clayton Stotz: a former American football player who played football at the University of Georgia
- John Stotz: a German footballer who played as a defender for Borussia Monchengladbach
- Rachel Stotz: an American professional track and field athlete who specializes in the pole vault
- Chris Stotz: an American former professional baseball player who played in Major League Baseball (MLB)