Surname Raters - Meaning and Origin

Raters: What does the surname Raters mean?

The last name Raters is an occupational surname originating from the old German language. It is derived from the word ‘raten’ meaning to ‘think, conjecture, advise’. Raters was likely used to designate individuals that were ‘counselors’, trusted mediators or advisers in the community, or couriers who facilitated the exchange of information and news between distant towns. People with this name likely had a reputation for being independent thinkers with strong problem-solving and communication skills.

The original German spelling was ‘Raters’, but over time common spelling variations have emerged including ‘Ratzer’, ‘Ratzer’, and ‘Ratzlaff’. Originally found throughout Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, the Raters surname now can be found throughout many other countries around the world, having been taken by immigrants leaving those areas in search of a better life elsewhere.

Today, the name Raters retains all of its original meaning but has expanded to incorporate connotations of respect, reliability, and deep-thinking. It represents individuals who strive to help others through their wisdom and insights.

Raters: Where does the name Raters come from?

The last name Raters is most commonly found in The Netherlands, particularly in the province of Friesland. This is due to the origin of the name. It is thought to come from a Frisian or Dutch word meaning "governor" or "land owner". Many who took on the name Raters were prominent figures in their respective communities.

The surname is also present in other countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In the United States, it was first recorded in New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio. During the 19th century, a significant number of Dutch immigrants arrived in North America and many of them would have been named Raters. This is why the name is now found in some of the countries listed.

Even today, the last name Raters continues to be found in the Netherlands. However, it is also found around the world where it has been spread through immigration and descendants of influential Dutch people who bore the name. This is why the presence of the last name Raters is a reminder of its rich and varied ancestry.

Variations of the surname Raters

The surname Raters is a Germanic patronymic surname derived from the given name Rater, which is itself derived from the Germanic element rad, meaning "counsel". As a result, the surname Raters is found in many variations across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, as well as other Germanic-speaking countries.

Variants of the surname Raters include Ratters, Radde, Radden, Raddi, Raddo, Rademacher, Radack, Radder, and Ritter.

The spelling variations of Raters will vary regionally, and some common alternate spellings include Ratter, Roters, Raeter, Reters, Rateres, Raterse, Ratersen, Ratert, Ratere, Radersed, Radersd, Raderssen, annd Ratersd.

Surnames that are of the same origin as Raters include Rader, Radtke, Radke, Radkowski, Radomiselle, Radner, Radostin, Radt, Ratkiewicz, Ratki, Ratynski, Ratovic, and Rutz.

Famous people with the name Raters

• Joost Raters: Actor and TV presenter from the Netherlands
• Lau Raters: Professional basketball player from Germany
• Frans Raters: Dutch sculptor and painter
• Willem Raters: French Actor and Singer
• Hendrik Raters: Dutch economist and historian
• Mark Raters: American comedian and actor
• Eveline Raters: Dutch sustainable fashion designer
• Frits Raters: Dutch politician
• Bert Raters: Dutch actor and director
• Cas Raters: Dutch children’s author

Other surnames

RaterRatert