Surname Linkletter - Meaning and Origin
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Linkletter: What does the surname Linkletter mean?
The surname Linkletter is of Scottish origin, specifically from the Northern region of the country. The name is believed to have derived from a place called Linklater in Orkney, Scotland. The place name Linklater, or rather its Old Norse precursor "lyngklettr", is believed to be a combination of two words, "lyng" meaning "heather" and "klettr" meaning "rock". Therefore, the surname Linkletter could mean "rock or cliff covered with heather". Surnames derived from place names are a common occurrence, and it typically indicates that the original bearer of the surname hailed from that place or was known for residing there. However, like with many ancient surnames, the true origin and meaning of Linkletter can be difficult to ascertain with absolute certainty. It's also important to note that the spelling and pronunciation of surnames have evolved over centuries, and Linkletter may also appear as Linklater, Linklatter, and other variations.
Order DNA origin analysisLinkletter: Where does the name Linkletter come from?
The last name Linkletter is of Scottish origin and is derived from an old Gaelic nickname 'MacFhionghain'. It is a patronymic type of surname that was originally created from the first name of an ancestor. The name translates to 'fair born' or 'fair son', reflecting physical characteristics of the individual.
The surname is more commonly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, particularly in the Hebrides Islands, where it was first originated. However, links to the surname can also be found in Canada and the United States due in part to migration from Scotland and Northern Ireland. An example is Art Linkletter, a Canadian-born American radio and television personality.
Today, even though it is not a very common surname globally, it still has some presence in Scotland, Northern Ireland, the US, and Canada, following the distribution and migration patterns of the descendants.
Variations of the surname Linkletter
The surname Linkletter is of Scottish origin and is believed to be a topographic name, derived from the Old Norse term 'link', meaning 'ridge', and 'setter', meaning 'dweller'. Variations of the surname may include Linklater, Linklatter, Linkladder, Linkleter, and Linklet. All these variations are based on the phonetic spelling and pronunciation of the original name. For example, the 't' in 'later' and 'letter' can sometimes be pronounced as 'd', leading to the 'Linkladder' variation. Such changes in spelling often occurred as a result of the transcription of oral information. Since literacy was not widespread in earlier times, scribes and clerks would often write names as they heard them, leading to several potential variations for each name. Another possibility is the migration of individuals, where cultural differences may alter the spelling or pronunciation of the name. This surname may not have many variations due to its uncommon nature. However, it is related to the broader family of topographic surnames in Scottish and Norse tradition.
Famous people with the name Linkletter
- Art Linkletter: A Canadian-born American radio and television host, making his TV debut in 1937 with his own variety show. He was best known for his programs "House Party" and "People Are Funny."
- Jack Linkletter: The son of link Art Linkletter, Jack became a television director and producer, contributing to shows such as "All in the Family" and "The Muppet Show."
- Diane Linkletter: The daughter of Art Linkletter, Diane tragically died by suicide at the age of 20 in 1969.
- Arthur Linkletter Jr.: Son of Art Linkletter, Arthur is a retired American footballer who played four seasons in the NFL.
- Ross Linkletter: Brother of Diane, Ross is the president of Linkletter Enterprises and has been inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.
- Carole Linkletter: The sister of Diane, Carole was an American actor, best known for her work in "High School Musical" and "Pretty in Pink."
- Peter Linkletter: Son of Art Linkletter, Peter is a Canadian television producer and director, responsible for many Muppet films.
- William Linkletter: brother of Art, William became a Canadian boxer and was inducted into the Canadian Amateur Boxing Hall of Fame.
- Ed Linkletter– Brother in law of Art Linkletter, Ed was a Canadian politician and labour organizer.
- Deane Linkletter– grandaughter of Art Linkletter, Deane is a Canadian television showrunner and writer.