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Otto
Pronounced OT-oh /ˈɒtoʊ/High
Meaning: Wealth, fortune; prosperous and powerfulHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Otto derives from the Old High German aud or od (wealth, fortune), from the Proto-Germanic root *audaz. It was a common name among the Carolingian and Ottonian dynasties of medieval Germany. Otto I the Great (912–973) was the first Holy Roman Emperor of the Ottonian dynasty, and three more Holy Roman Emperors bore the name.
After peaking in Germany and Central Europe in the medieval period, Otto became a fashionable choice in early 20th-century England and the United States before declining. It has experienced an extraordinary global revival in the 21st century, entering the top 100 in the U.K., Australia, and Germany and the top 300 in the U.S.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Otto I (Otto the Great) (912–973 CE)First Holy Roman Emperor of the Ottonian dynasty, who consolidated German royal authority.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Otto mean?
Otto is a Germanic name meaning 'wealth' or 'fortune,' from Old High German aud (riches, prosperity).
How do you pronounce Otto?
It is said OT-oh /ˈɒtoʊ/ — two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Otto a boy or girl name?
Otto is used almost exclusively as a boys' name.
How popular is Otto?
Otto has been strongly reviving globally and entered the U.S. top 300 for boys while reaching the top 100 in the U.K. and Australia.