Moat Surname

The Origins of the Surname 'Moat'

The surname 'Moat' is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word 'mot' which means a moated house or a trench dug around a castle for defensive purposes. It is believed that the surname was originally used to describe someone who lived near a moat or who worked in or around a moated house.

Distribution of the Surname 'Moat'

The surname 'Moat' is relatively rare and is most commonly found in Cambodia, with a total incidence of 34,658. It is also found in Iraq with an incidence of 4,108, in England with an incidence of 1,120, and in the United States with an incidence of 643. Other countries where the surname 'Moat' is present include Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Qatar, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Scotland, France, South Sudan, Iran, Spain, Wales, Jersey, Switzerland, Ireland, the Philippines, Pakistan, Romania, Russia, Yemen, China, Finland, Northern Ireland, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Morocco, Mexico, and Norway, each with varying incidences.

Notable Individuals with the Surname 'Moat'

While the surname 'Moat' may not be as common as some other surnames, there have been several notable individuals throughout history who have borne this name. One such individual is John Moat, a British poet and writer known for his work in the field of creativity and mental health. Another notable figure with the surname 'Moat' is Raoul Moat, a fugitive who gained notoriety in the UK for his attacks on a former girlfriend and her new partner.

Variants of the Surname 'Moat'

Like many surnames, the name 'Moat' has seen various spelling variations over the years. Some of the most common variants of the surname include 'Moatt', 'Moate', 'Mote', and 'Moot'. These variations may have emerged due to factors such as dialectal differences, clerical errors, or simply personal preference.

Meaning and Symbolism of the Surname 'Moat'

Given the origins of the surname 'Moat' from the Old English word 'mot', it is likely that the name was originally bestowed upon individuals who were in some way associated with moats or fortified structures. As such, the surname may have connotations of strength, protection, and security. In a more metaphorical sense, the name 'Moat' could be seen as a symbol of resilience and the ability to overcome obstacles.

Popularity and Usage of the Surname 'Moat'

While the surname 'Moat' may not be as common as some other surnames, it is still in use today in various parts of the world. The popularity of the name may vary depending on geographical location, cultural factors, and historical influences. In some regions, the surname 'Moat' may be more prevalent due to a higher concentration of individuals with that name, while in other areas it may be relatively rare.

Famous Families with the Surname 'Moat'

There are several prominent families with the surname 'Moat' who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. These families may have a rich history and a strong sense of identity tied to their surname. By tracing the genealogy of these families, it is possible to uncover a wealth of information about the origins and meanings of the surname 'Moat'.

Overall, the surname 'Moat' carries with it a sense of history, tradition, and identity. While it may not be as widely recognized as some other surnames, the name 'Moat' has its own unique charm and significance. By exploring the origins, variations, and symbolism of the surname 'Moat', we can gain a better understanding of the rich tapestry of human history and culture.

The surname Moat into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same happens in the case of Moat, which as you can corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that can be found in most of the countries of this globe. In the same manner there are nations in which certainly the thickness of people using the surname Moat is more than in other countries.

The map of this Moat surname

1. Cambodia (34658)
2. Iraq (4108)
3. England (1120)
4. United States (643)
5. Australia (151)
6. Canada (105)
7. Indonesia (103)
8. Qatar (95)
9. New Zealand (46)
10. Papua New Guinea (44)
11. United Arab Emirates (42)
12. South Africa (35)
13. Scotland (25)
14. France (24)
15. South Sudan (16)
16. Iran (9)
17. Spain (8)
18. Wales (6)
19. Jersey (5)
20. Switzerland (4)
21. Ireland (2)
22. Philippines (1)
23. Pakistan (1)
24. Romania (1)
25. Russia (1)
26. Yemen (1)
27. China (1)
28. Finland (1)
29. Nothern Ireland (1)
30. Hong Kong (1)
31. Italy (1)
32. Japan (1)
33. Lebanon (1)
34. Morocco (1)
35. Mexico (1)
36. Norway (1)