Little

Little is an English surname derived from the Middle English adjective littel (meaning “small” or “not large”). Originally a nickname for a person of short stature, it belongs to a common class of European surnames describing physical characteristics—parallels include French Petit and Polish Mały.

Etymology and Variants

The name developed from Old English lȳtel, with variant spellings such as Littell, Litle, Lytle, and Lyttle. Phonetically similar forms include Lightle, Lightley, and Lighthill.

The name has also been adopted as a translation or anglicization of equivalent nicknames from other languages, such as Irish Ó Beagáin (“descendant of Beagán,” from beag “small”), Navajo Yazzie (from yázhí “little”), and French Petit.

Notable Bearers

The surname Little is borne by several notable figures, though the etymology is the primary focus of this name. The historical record covers many professions, from the arts to sports.

Cultural Significance

Names based on physical traits were popular in medieval England, when hereditary surnames formed. As a descriptive label, Little originated as a humorous or literal epithet before transitioning into a household lineage. In the United States, the name ranks among the 100 most common surnames, brought over by early English settlers.

• Origin: English
• Meaning: “Little,” a nickname for a short person
• Alternative spellings: Littel, Littell, Lytle, Lyttle, Litle
• Usage regions: England, Ireland, Scotland, United States