Butler

Occupational

Meaning

A senior household servant responsible for managing the wine cellar and serving at table in a noble or wealthy household.

Etymology

From Old French 'bouteillier,' derived from 'bouteille' meaning 'bottle,' which comes from Latin 'butticula.' The position was prestigious and required trust and responsibility.

About the Butler Surname

Butler is a prestigious occupational surname representing senior household servants in noble and wealthy establishments. The surname reflects a position of trust and authority within medieval and early modern households.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 620,000 bearers in the United States #118 most common surname
Rare Common

Common throughout England and widespread in North America, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.

Butler Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

People with the Butler Surname