by Jim Young (guest)
6/7/2005, 4:07 PM
This is a Scottish surname, a diminutive form of the name Bartholomew.
In Ireland it is usually of Scots origin, but sometimes it was adopted as an English language form of biadhtach. A biadhtach, or betagh, was someone designated by a king or chief to provide accommodation and hospitality to visitors. Apparently it was a full-time occupation.
In Ireland it is also spelt Beatty and Betty.