holt

Holt is a term of English origin that functions as both a noun and a place name. In Old English, holt described a wood, grove, copse, or wooded hill, and the word survives in modern English as a geographic descriptor and surname. It has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Dutch holt, with a similar meaning.

As a toponym, Holt appears in multiple countries. In the United Kingdom, Holt is the name of several villages and towns, most notably Holt in Norfolk, a market town in North Norfolk known for its historic streets and proximity to the coast. In the United States, Holt is used for towns, communities, and counties across several states, reflecting the common practice of adopting English woodland-related names in new settlements.

Holt is also a surname of English origin. It is borne by many individuals in politics, science, the arts, and sports, among others.

Beyond people and places, the word holt appears in ecological and historical contexts as a term for woodland or coppice. There are organizations bearing the Holt name, including Holt International, an international child welfare organization.