Kopitar is a Slovenian occupational surname derived from the Slovene word kopito, meaning "hoof." It originally referred to a shoer of horses, a trade essential in agrarian and equestrian societies. The name is most common in Slovenia.Notable BearersAnže Kopitar (born 1987), a professional ice hockey center for the Los Angeles Kings, one of the most famous Slovenian athletes internationally.Jernej Kopitar (1780–1844), a linguist and philologist who played a key role in the development of Slavic studies and the modern Slovene language.Matjaž Kopitar (born 1965), a former ice hockey player and coach.Gašper Kopitar (born 1992), a Slovenian ice hockey player.Rok Kopitar (born 1959), a Slovenian hurdler.Key FactsOrigin: SloveneType: Occupational surnameMeaning: From the word kopito (hoof), referring to a horseshoer or farrierUsage: Primarily in Slovenia