Waldo

Meaning

A ruler or powerful person, particularly one associated with forests or authority.

Etymology

From Old High German 'waltan' (to rule, govern) or 'wald' (forest), with the suffix '-o' common in Germanic personal names. It evolved from a given name to a hereditary surname.

About the Waldo Surname

Originally a Germanic given name that became hereditary as a surname, indicating descent from someone named Waldo. The name carries connotations of power and governance in its etymological roots.

Distribution

Found throughout Germanic regions and Scandinavia, with modern presence in North America.

Notable Bearers

Waldo Semon (inventor), Waldo Emerson (American philosopher)

People with the Waldo Surname