Hazlitt (name)

Hazlitt is a surname of English origin.

Origin and Meaning:

The name Hazlitt is generally considered to be a diminutive form of the Old English personal name "Hesel," derived from "Hæsel," meaning "hazel tree." The suffix "-ett" is a diminutive suffix, thus "Hazlitt" means "little hazel" or "son of Hesel." The name is topographic, referring to someone who lived near a hazel tree or in a hazel grove, or perhaps a nickname.

Distribution:

The surname is primarily found in England and other English-speaking countries. Its frequency varies depending on region.

Notable People:

• William Hazlitt (1778-1830): A prominent English essayist, literary and art critic, and philosopher. He is arguably the most well-known individual with this surname.
• William Carew Hazlitt (1834-1913): An English bibliographer, editor, and essayist; grandson of the aforementioned William Hazlitt.

Variations:

Similar surnames or variant spellings include, but are not limited to, Hazelitt, Hazell, Hazel, and Hazelett.