wyatt

Wyatt is used as both a given name and a surname in English-speaking countries. It is of English origin, derived from the medieval surname Wyatt, which itself is thought to descend from a given name such as Wigheard, formed from Old English elements wig meaning “war” and heard meaning “hardy” or “brave.” Over time, the surname became a given name and has remained popular in the United States and elsewhere.

As a given name, Wyatt is typically masculine, though it is occasionally used for girls in modern times. It gained steady use in the 19th century and rose in popularity in the United States during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, partly due to its strong, straightforward sound. The name is often associated in popular culture with independence and frontier imagery, reinforced by famous bearers and characters in media.

As a surname, Wyatt remains common in England and in countries with British heritage. Notable bearers include Wyatt Earp, the American lawman famed for his role in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral; Wyatt Cenac, the American comedian and writer; Wyatt Oleff, the American actor; and Wyatt Russell, the American actor and producer.

Wyatt has appeared in various works of fiction, where it is used for characters across Westerns, thrillers, and contemporary dramas. The name’s enduring appeal lies in its concise, enduringly masculine sound and its association with resilience and resolve.