Ottho: a male name of Germanic origin meaning "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory".It derives from the Germanic word "*audaz / *ōþ- > uodil > otho".
Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Ottho, drawn to its Germanic heritage and beautiful significance: "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Ottho
Quick facts about Ottho
Origin
Germanic
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
*audaz / *ōþ- > uodil > otho
How to Pronounce Ottho
Ottho is pronounced /ˈɒt.θoʊ/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ott-ho
Say it like: "OTT-HO"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Ottho is predominantly used in danish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
danish
Name Relationships
Ottho is a variant form of Otto, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Ottho means "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity.". The name comes from *audaz / *ōþ- > uodil > otho. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Ottho for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Ottho's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS) / RELIGION (BISHOPS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Ottho?
Ottho is a germanic name. The name traces back to *audaz / *ōþ- > uodil > otho. The name remains closely tied to danish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The germanic meaning "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Ottho developed as a form of Otto, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Ottho a boy or girl name?
Ottho is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In germanic tradition, Ottho has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Ottho?
Ottho is pronounced "/ˈɒt.θoʊ/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ottho is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Ottho can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Ottho?
Ottho is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ottho offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ottho's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Ottho holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Ottho?
Ottho is a form of Otto. Over time, Otto developed into several variations, with Ottho emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In germanic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Ottho might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In danish, Ottho may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Ottho commonly used?
Ottho is used primarily in danish naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Ottho found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Ottho into their naming traditions. A child named Ottho will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Ottho is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Ottho?
Ottho carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS) / RELIGION (BISHOPS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name probably derives from the Ancient Germanic “otho,” from the Ancient Germanic “*audaz,” meaning “prosperity, fortune, riches, wealth, heiress” or from “*ōþ- > uodil,” meaning “One’s ancestral land, homeland, home, territory.” Audo and Odo were originally diminutives of all names beginning with the element “od-, ot-.” Otto, also spelled Othon (Greek: Ὄθων, βασιλεὺς τῆς Ἑλλάδος) (1815–1867), was a Bavarian prince who became the first modern king of Greece in 1832 under the convention of London. He reigned until his deposition in 1862. In 1832, Otto, Prince of Bavaria, was proclaimed king of Greece. He adopted the Greek spelling of his name, king Othon, as well as Greek national dress. One of his first tasks as king was to conduct a detailed archaeological and topographical survey of Athens, his new capital. He assigned Gustav Eduard Schaubert and Stamatios Kleanthis to complete this task. Saint Otto of Bamberg was a Medieval German bishop and missionary who, as papal legate, converted much of Pomerania to Christianity." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In germanic culture, where Ottho originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Ottho sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Ottho often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In danish communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.