Getty Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

The surname Getty is of Scottish origin and has multiple possible origins.
1. Scottish Gaelic: The name may be derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "geadaidh," meaning "thievish." It was likely originally used as a nickname for someone who was seen as sly or cunning.
2. Irish: It is also possible that the surname Getty is of Irish origin. In Irish, the name "MacDhèididh" means "son of David." Over time, it is believed that MacDhèididh evolved into various forms, including Getty.
As for the family history of the surname, the Getty name can be traced back to various regions of Scotland and Ireland. Over the centuries, descendants of the Getty family have spread across the globe, particularly to the United States, Canada, and other English-speaking countries. Notable individuals bearing the Getty surname include the American industrialist J. Paul Getty and his descendants who became prominent in the oil and art industries.

1. The surname Getty originated in Scotland. It is derived from the Old Norse personal name "Geiti," which means "goat."
2. The first recorded instance of the surname Getty dates back to 1526 in Scotland, where a William Gettie is mentioned in historical records.
3. The Getty surname is relatively rare, with fewer than 5,000 individuals around the world bearing this name.
4. The most famous individual associated with the surname Getty is J. Paul Getty (1892-1976), an American industrialist and philanthropist. He founded the Getty Oil Company and became known as one of the wealthiest individuals in the world during his time.
5. J. Paul Getty's son, J. Paul Getty Jr., continued his father's philanthropic work and played a significant role in expanding the family's wealth. He later became a prominent art collector and philanthropist himself.
6. There are various notable Getty institutions and foundations associated with the surname. The J. Paul Getty Museum, officially known as the Getty Center, is a renowned art museum in Los Angeles, California, housing an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Additionally, the Getty Foundation supports various art-related projects globally.
7. The Getty surname has gained recognition in the entertainment industry as well. Balthazar Getty is an American actor, best known for his roles in movies like "Young Guns II" and the TV series "Brothers & Sisters."
8. The Getty family has faced some high-profile incidents, including the infamous kidnapping of J. Paul Getty III in 1973. This incident garnered significant media attention and highlighted the vast wealth and complexities associated with the Getty name.
9. Despite the fame and fortune associated with the surname Getty, there are numerous individuals around the world with the surname who may not be directly connected to the famed Getty family.

The Getty family is originally from the United States. They are known for their wealth and involvement in various industries such as oil, art collections, and philanthropy. The family has roots in California, where the famous Getty Villa and Getty Center art museums are located.

1. J. Paul Getty - American oil tycoon and philanthropist
2. John Paul Getty Jr. - British philanthropist and son of J. Paul Getty
3. Gordon Getty - American composer, businessman, and philanthropist
4. Balthazar Getty - American actor and musician
5. Christopher Getty - American artist and photographer
6. Aileen Getty - American philanthropist and activist
7. Andrew Getty - American businessman and grandson of J. Paul Getty
8. Ann Getty - American philanthropist and socialite
9. Nats Getty - American model, artist, and LGBTQ+ activist
10. Maxwell Getty - American actor and writer