Smothers
An English surname that likely began as a nickname or variant form related to “Smithers,” though the exact origin is uncertain.
The #4,756 most common surname in the United States (2010 Census) — about 1 in every 41,476 Americans shares it.
Etymology
The available historical notes do not give a secure derivation for Smothers. One 19th-century source groups it with Smithers, suggesting a possible connection by spelling or sound, but that is not enough to prove the surname’s true source. The name may ultimately be an English nickname or an altered form of another surname, rather than a straightforward occupational name.
History
The surname is recorded in the United States by the 19th century, and the cited sources show it as an established family name by that time. Because the excerpted references are incidental rather than full dictionary entries, they do not supply a reliable migration story or a definite etymology. Modern bearers are found chiefly in the United States.
Origin
Regions
Variant spellings
Fun fact
An old surname list from the 1800s casually places Smothers alongside Smithers, hinting that even historical compilers were unsure whether it was a distinct name or a spelling relative.
From the historical record
“ell was an eminent surgeon in New Hampshire. AVe have both Twichell and Twitchell. Salem has resi- dents named Smothers and Scriggins. Miss Lummus lives in North Beverly. Mr. Fussell, of Roxbury, was married, October, 1858 ; and Mr. Bluxom died in Boston. Rev. Mr. Faunce resides at Worcester. Mr. Quatllebaum was a…”
— Suffolk Surnames (3rd ed.)