Fitz (surname)

Fitz is a surname of Norman-French origin. It is a patronymic prefix, meaning "son of." It was frequently used in Anglo-Norman families, particularly in England and Ireland, following the Norman Conquest.

The prefix "Fitz" was commonly attached to the father's given name to denote illegitimate sons, especially those of royalty or nobility. However, it was also used by legitimate children in some families, particularly in Ireland, to distinguish different branches of the same lineage.

Over time, "Fitz" became hereditary and established as a fixed part of surnames. Examples include Fitzwilliam, Fitzgerald, Fitzpatrick, Fitzroy, and Fitzherbert. The specific name following "Fitz" indicates the individual ancestor from whom the family claims descent.

The distribution of the Fitz surname variants is concentrated in regions historically influenced by Norman settlement, particularly in the south of England and in Ireland. The surname continues to be used in these areas today.