Holten

Holten is a surname of Germanic origin. It is generally considered to be a habitational name, derived from a place name meaning "wooded settlement" or "settlement in a wood" or "place near the holt (small wood, grove)".

The name is found in several countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavian countries such as Denmark and Norway. As a surname, variations in spelling may occur, such as Holton or Houlton.

The etymology connects the name to the Old English word "holt," meaning a small wood or grove of trees. Place names incorporating "Holten" or similar forms are found throughout areas historically populated by Germanic tribes, reinforcing the surname's likely origin as a locator for individuals from a specific wooded area or settlement.

Notable individuals with the surname Holten include people from various fields, such as academics, artists, and business professionals. The relative rarity of the surname suggests a common, localized origin for those bearing the name.