A masculine given name of Norman origin, also a surname; historically associated with English nobility.
From Old French 'Mortemer,' meaning 'dead sea' or 'stagnant water' (mort 'dead' + mer 'sea'). The name came to England with Norman nobles after 1066, becoming associated with powerful medieval families.
Despite meaning 'dead sea,' Mortimer became one of the most prestigious names in medieval England - the Mortimer family were so powerful they nearly overthrew King Edward II. It shows how a name's prestige can completely override its literal meaning.
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