Origin of Ratt
Recorded as Rat, Ratt and Ratter, this is a medieval English surname. Its derivation however is from the Olde French word 'raton' probably introduced at or after the famous Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Thereafter for some two hundred years, French was the official language of England. Diplomatically that remained so until the Napoleonic Wars 1795 - 1815, when the British gave up their claim to the throne of France, so that they could thereafter insist on speaking only English! This name may describe a rat catcher, as in Margeria le Ratonner in the Subsidy Tax rolls of the county of Suffolk in 1327.
Apparently Margeria was not only a successul rat catcher, and one who was on more than nodding terms with the taxman at a time when few were, but a lady to boot! Earlier in the rolls known as the Testa de Neville in the year 1272, we have the recording of Jordan le Rat. According to the famous Victorian etymologist Canon Charles Bardsley writing in the year 1880, to call somebody a rat in medieval times was not regarded as uncomplimentary, in fact the reverse. The rat being praised for its stealth and cunning, as well no doubt being a pretty good street cleaner.
The surname Ratt. Genealogy, origin, history, meaning, and significance
Discovering the historical roots of ratt is deeply interesting, as it takes us back to the ancestors and relatives who established this lineage. Adhering to what we know about the way surnames originated, it is possible to offer a realistic explanation of the origins of ratt.
The surname Ratt around the world
Although surnames have a specific origin at a certain time and region of the planet, many of them have spread far and wide across the world for various reasons, as is the case with the surname ratt.
History of Ratt
The historical chronicle of ratt is based on a striking series of events that were led by those who have carried this surname throughout history. In the following lines, you will find everything we have been able to gather about the surname ratt.
We suggest that if you want to learn more about the surname ratt, try to locate it through the bibliographic sources we suggest.
Notable Figures Named Ratt
It's more than likely that there have been some distinguished ratts throughout human history. If you or someone you know bears the surname ratt, you could potentially build illustrious lineages through your efforts and virtues.
The surname Ratt and its bibliographic sources
Thanks to a significant bibliographic review, we have so far compiled information on the heraldry, history, and genealogy of ratt. Accessing the archives of the town or towns where your ancestors were born and lived is, of course, a good way to trace the origins of ratt.
SOURCES
These sources are essential for initiating the understanding of ratt, and at the same time, of surnames in general.
