What is where does the last name bates come from?

The last name Bates is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "bat," which means boat or small vessel used for transportation. The name Bates was originally a nickname for someone who worked on a boat or who had a connection to boats in some way. Over time, the name became a surname and was passed down through families. Today, Bates is a relatively common last name in English-speaking countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.