Type Surname (from given name)
Usage Anglo-Saxon, French, Old Norse
Other Forms FormsCattle, Catell, Chattell, Chatel
Meaning & History
Originated in Scandinavia as a patronym of the first name Thurkettle, a derivative of the Old Norse name Arnkell, which is composed of arn meaning "eagle" and ketil meaning "a helmet" or "a helmeted warrior" as well as "cauldron", but helmet is the more likely translation. Mainly found in Northumberland. Could also be from the personal name Chetel, which comes from the French catel meaning "a dweller at or by a Chateau or Castle."