The surname Cutajar has its origins in Malta, a small island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is believed to have first emerged in the 15th or 16th century, during the period of the Knights of St. John's rule over the Maltese islands.

Cutajar is thought to be derived from the Maltese word "qatarr", which means "drop" or "drip". This linguistic connection suggests that the name may have originated as a descriptive surname, possibly referring to an occupation or physical characteristic related to water or liquids.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Cutajar can be found in the "Militia Rolls" of the Order of St. John, which documented the names of Maltese militia members in the 16th and 17th centuries. These records provide valuable insight into the historical prevalence and distribution of the surname on the Maltese islands.

Notably, the Cutajar surname has been associated with several prominent individuals throughout history. In the 17th century, Fra Domenico Cutajar served as a knight of the Order of St. John, playing a significant role in the defense of Malta during the Great Siege of 1565.

Another notable figure was Giuseppe Cutajar, born in 1836, who was a renowned Maltese sculptor and artist. His works can be found adorning various churches and public buildings across Malta, leaving a lasting legacy in the island's artistic heritage.

In the 20th century, Pawlu Cutajar (1899-1972) was a respected Maltese politician and statesman who served as the Minister of Finance and later as the Speaker of the Maltese Parliament. His contributions to the country's economic and political development during the post-World War II period were significant.

More recently, Liam Cutajar (born 1966) is a well-known Maltese writer and playwright. His works have been widely acclaimed and have earned him numerous literary awards, both nationally and internationally.

Another individual of note is Joseph Cutajar (1931-2023), who was a prominent Maltese businessman and philanthropist. He founded one of Malta's largest construction companies and was actively involved in various charitable initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on the island's business and social landscape.

While the Cutajar surname has its roots in Malta, it has since spread to other parts of the world through migration and diaspora communities. However, its origins and historical significance remain deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Maltese archipelago.