Find out how popular the first name Otha has been for the last 45 years (from 1974 to 2018) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Otha by gender

Based on the last 45 years of data, Otha is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2018, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Otha.

The history of the first name Otha

The name Otha is a masculine given name of uncertain origin, but it is believed to have roots in various ancient cultures and languages. Some linguists trace it back to the Old Norse word "othr," meaning "wealth" or "prosperity." Others link it to the Old English word "oth," which referred to a particular type of oath or pledge.

In ancient Germanic and Norse mythology, there are references to a figure named Otha or Othin, who was associated with wisdom, poetry, and battle. This mythological connection may have contributed to the name's early usage and popularity in certain regions of Europe.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Otha can be found in the Domesday Book, a survey of landholdings commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The Domesday Book mentions an individual named Otha who held land in the county of Norfolk, England.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Otha. One of the most famous was Otha the Illustrious (796-853), a Frankish count and military leader who served under Louis the Pious, the Carolingian emperor. Otha played a significant role in the wars against the Vikings and was celebrated for his bravery and strategic prowess.

Another prominent figure was Otha of Merania (1180-1248), a German nobleman and Duke of Merania. He was a powerful ruler in the Holy Roman Empire and a supporter of the Hohenstaufen dynasty. Otha of Merania was also a patron of the arts and contributed to the construction of several notable buildings, including the Cathedral of Bamberg.

In the realm of literature, Otha was the name of a character in the epic poem "Beowulf," one of the most important works of Old English literature. Otha was portrayed as a brave warrior and loyal companion to the legendary hero Beowulf.

Another historical figure named Otha was Otha the Great (1020-1095), a Benedictine monk and scholar from the Abbey of Cluny in France. He was renowned for his expertise in theology, philosophy, and the liberal arts, and his writings influenced the intellectual climate of the Middle Ages.

Lastly, Otha of Ratisbon (1088-1158) was a German bishop and chronicler who authored the "Gesta Friderici I. Imperatoris" (Deeds of Frederick I, Emperor), an important historical account of the reign of Frederick Barbarossa, the Holy Roman Emperor.

These are just a few examples of the many individuals throughout history who have borne the name Otha, a name steeped in ancient mythology, literature, and cultural traditions.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Otha was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Otha, please contact us.

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