Butnam

Topographic

Meaning

A habitational surname derived from a place name, possibly related to a butter-making location or dairy farm.

Etymology

The name likely combines 'butt' (a strip of land) or 'butter' with a locational suffix. It may be connected to Old English elements referring to dairy operations or land divisions.

About the Butnam Surname

An uncommon English surname with uncertain etymology, likely indicating a connection to dairy farming or land features. The name appears to have concentrated in colonial New England.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 500 bearers in the United States #4,212 most common surname
Rare Common

Primarily found in New England and northeastern United States.

Butnam Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Butnam Surname