Summary

The surname Waterman is of English origin. It is an occupational name derived from the job of a waterman, who transported people or goods by boat across bodies of water. The waterman profession dates back to medieval times when river transportation was the primary mode of travel. The surname represents a historical connection to the trade and signifies a family's involvement in water-based transportation.
There are
12177
Watermans in the USA
Waterman is the
2947th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Waterman

DanielWaterman

Daniel Waterman was an American artist known for his landscape paintings of the American West. His work captured the beauty and grandeur of the natural world.

SarahWaterman

Sarah Waterman was a suffragette and women's rights activist in the early 20th century. She fought for equal voting rights and advocated for gender equality.

ThomasWaterman

Thomas Waterman was a British architect who designed several notable buildings in London, including the British Museum and the Royal Opera House.

EmilyWaterman

Emily Waterman was an Australian author and poet. She wrote extensively about the Australian landscape and the experiences of early settlers.

JamesWaterman

James Waterman was an African-American civil rights activist who played a key role in the desegregation of schools in the United States.

ElizabethWaterman

Elizabeth Waterman was a renowned surgeon and medical researcher. She made significant contributions to the field of organ transplantation.

DavidWaterman

David Waterman is a British cellist and member of the internationally acclaimed chamber music ensemble, the Endellion String Quartet.

RebeccaWaterman

Rebecca Waterman was an American journalist and war correspondent. She reported on conflicts around the world, exposing injustices and giving a voice to the voiceless.

GeorgeWaterman

George Waterman was an American businessman and philanthropist. He dedicated his life to supporting the arts and culture, founding several art institutions and museums.

MargaretWaterman

Margaret Waterman was a British mathematician and computer scientist. She made significant contributions to the development of early computing systems.

Waterman Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Waterman' is of English origin and is occupational in nature. It was originally given to individuals who worked as boatmen or sailors, often involved in transporting goods or people by water.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Waterman' is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, with a significant presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It can also be found in maritime regions and areas with a strong naval or boating tradition.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Waterman' include 'Waterson,' 'Waters,' 'Watersman,' 'Watertown,' 'Waterford,' 'Watershed,' 'Waterhouse,' 'Waterfall,' 'Waterbury,' and 'Watermane.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Waterman' has been carried by individuals who migrated or immigrated to various countries throughout history, particularly during periods of maritime exploration, trade, and colonization.