Name Dodd

There are multiple origins and translations for the Dodd:

1. Old English surname - "alderman".

Such a man was not only elder in the sense of age, but also wisdom, hence ealdor. He had far more importance than the alderman of today. In Anglo-Saxon times, he would be a nobleman, having as well as civil authority and being the principal judiciary officer, the military leadership of his shire. The sheriff reported to the alderman. He was appointed by the king and had a share of the taxes and fines of the shire. The office was for life, but could be revoked for serious crimes such as treason. He was chosen from among the most wealthy, powerful nobles and had a seat in the witenagemot or government. Aldermen lost much of their power with the Danish king Cnut's take over of England in 1014.

2. See Hebrew name Dod - "uncle; friend".