Otis
OH-tihs
Otis derives from the medieval English surname Ode or Otto, which traces to the Old German ot meaning “wealth” or “prosperity.” The -is ending is a patronymic English adaptation.
Elisha Otis invented the safety elevator in 1852, linking the surname to modern engineering. As a given name, Otis was well established in America by the mid-19th century.
Otis peaked at No. 94 in 1899 with 185 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 730 with 358 births, nearly double its 19th-century count in raw numbers.
What the name Otis means
Soul legend Otis Redding defined the name for a generation. His 1967 recording of (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay remains one of the most recognised songs in American music.
Two syllables—OH-tis—have a warm, rounded quality. The open first vowel and soft sibilant ending feel gentle and approachable.
Vintage names are thriving, and Otis fits the trend alongside Oscar, Otto, and Orson. Its musical heritage adds soulful character.
British parents have already pushed Otis into the UK top 50. The American chart may follow as transatlantic naming trends often align within a decade.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Otis
Otis - similar names
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