Tiit is an Estonian masculine given name, originally a short form of Tiidrik, the Estonian form of Theodoric, but now used independently. The name ultimately derives from the Gothic *Þiudareiks, meaning 'ruler of the people', from the elements þiuda 'people' and reiks 'ruler, king'. The most famous historical bearer was Theodoric the Great, a 6th-century king of the Ostrogoths who became ruler of Italy. Popularity and Usage Tiit is a common given name in Estonia, reflecting the influence of Germanic name traditions adapted into the Estonian language. It is rarely used as a surname. Notable Bearers Many Estonian public figures bear the name Tiit across various fields: Tiit Kuusik (1911–1990), opera singer Tiit Made (born 1940), economist and politician Tiit Lilleorg (1941–2021), actor Tiit Kändler (born 1948), humorist and science journalist Tiit Helmja (born 1945), rower Tiit Helimets (born 1977), ballet dancer Tiit Land (born 1964), biochemist Meaning: 'ruler of the people' Origin: Gothic, via German and Estonian Type: First name (originally a diminutive) Usage: Estonian