Kettunen

Kettunen is a Finnish surname. It is derived from the Finnish word "kettu," meaning fox. The suffix "-nen" is a common diminutive or patronymic suffix in Finnish names. Therefore, Kettunen can be interpreted as "little fox" or "son/descendant of the fox."

The surname is relatively common in Finland. Like many Finnish surnames ending in "-nen," it likely originated as a nickname or a descriptive name for an individual, possibly related to traits associated with foxes, such as cunning, speed, or a reddish hair color. Over time, these nicknames became hereditary surnames passed down through generations.

Notable individuals with the surname Kettunen include:

Aarne Kettunen (1911–1977), a Finnish journalist and politician.

Esa Kettunen (born 1970), a Finnish ice hockey player.

Marko Kettunen (born 1970), a Finnish film director.

The prevalence of the Kettunen surname reflects common Finnish naming practices, particularly the widespread use of the "-nen" suffix. Its direct connection to a common animal like the fox makes it easily recognizable within Finnish culture.