Tait
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Tait
Tait, which has 4 letters and 1 syllable, is a unisex name of Polish origin.
Meaning of Tait
Cheerful
The name Tait is of Scottish origin and means “cheerful” or “happy.” It is also sometimes used as a diminutive form of the name Thomas.
| Meaning | Cheerful |
| Origin | Polish |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Not in top 1000) |
Background & History of The Name Tait
The name Tait is of Scottish origin and has both historical and geographical significance. The word "Tait" is derived from the Old English word "tata," meaning cheerful or glad. It is believed to have originated as a personal name, eventually developing into a surname. The Tait surname is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in the Shetland and Orkney Islands, where it is considered one of the ancient Norse surnames.
The name Tait is associated with several notable individuals throughout history. One famous bearer of this name is William Tait, a renowned Scottish publisher and bookseller in the 19th century. He founded the publishing company Tait's Edinburgh Magazine, which became an influential literary publication during this time. Another notable figure is Sir James Tait, a Scottish lawyer and philanthropist, who established the prestigious Tait Professorship of Law at the University of Glasgow.
Geographically, the name Tait also holds significance. In Scotland, there are various landmarks and places related to this name. For example, Tait Tower, also known as Am Teath, is a prominent hill in Shetland. The Tait Hall is a community hall in Orkney that serves as a venue for cultural events, concerts, and social gatherings. Additionally, the Tait Building is a historic structure located in the heart of Edinburgh, which housed the aforementioned publishing company Tait's Edinburgh Magazine during the 19th century.
Overall, the name Tait is deeply rooted in Scottish history and culture. Its origins, associated individuals, and geographical connections contribute to its significance. Whether as a personal name or surname, Tait carries a sense of joy and has left a lasting legacy in various fields.
Check Initials
See what initials Tait would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Tait.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account