Surname Kifer - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'K'
Kifer: What does the surname Kifer mean?
Kifer is a surname of Eastern European origin, predominantly found in the major Slavic-speaking countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Poland and others. It is believed to be derived from the Slavic word “kovar,” which translates to “blacksmith.” Hence, this name would have been traditionally used for families or individuals who worked as blacksmiths. However, multiple variations of the name are available across different cultures due to linguistic deviations and phonetic differences, such as Kiefer in German. The meaning of the surname can vary based on this. It's important to note that while the prominent association is with blacksmithing, the exact historical significance and origin might differ among families bearing this surname, due to geographic relocation, cultural intermixing, and other factors.
Order DNA origin analysisKifer: Where does the name Kifer come from?
The surname Kifer is believed to be of Jewish Ashkenazic origin, specifically from Eastern European countries where Yiddish was commonly spoken. The name is derived from the Hebrew word 'kafir', which means 'non-believer' or 'infidel'. It may have been applied as a nickname to someone who was not religious or who held unconventional religious beliefs. However, there's a possibility that it could have German roots as well, because of its prevalent use in German-speaking regions. As of today, the surname Kifer is not particularly common but can be found in various countries, including the United States, Germany, and Israel among others. It's important to note that the distribution of a surname is not static and could have changed due to migration and other demographic shifts.
Variations of the surname Kifer
The surname Kifer likely has origins from German and Jewish (Ashkenazic) backgrounds. It is derived from an occupational name for a cooper, from an agent derivative of Middle High German kuof ‘cask’, ‘barrel’.
Variations and spellings of the surname can include Kiefer, Kuefer, Keifer, Kufer, Kyfer, Kifer, Keiffer, Kieffer, and Kofer. In some instances, the surname may have also been anglicized to Cooper, which is the English equivalent occupational name.
Surnames of the same origin or that share a similar background include other German occupational names, such as Schmidt (smith), Bauer (farmer), or Schneider (tailor).
It's essential to keep in mind that the spelling of surnames may have significantly changed over time and with emigration, due to factors such as phonetic spelling by immigration officers, or a familial decision to better fit in with a new community or country.
Famous people with the name Kifer
- Nick Kifer, American musician and composer who writes music for artists such as Taylor Swift, Maroon 5, and Kelly Clarkson.
- Fred Kifer, Major League Baseball player who played for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1922.
- Mike Kifer, former NFL player who played for the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams between 1988 to 1993.
- Bill Kifer, Member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1979 to 2000.
- Bennie Kifer, a former American baseball player who pitched in the major leagues between 1924 and 1925.
- Robert Kifer, an American artist active in the late 20th century, He is best known for his paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
- Steve Kifer, former American football player who played for the New York Giants and Detroit Lions.
- Jim Kifer, Country singer and songwriter who released two albums in the late 1980s.
- Chet Kifer, professional bull rider and member of the Professional Bull Riders Association.
- Aaron Kifer, American actor who has starred in movies such as "The Last Goodbye", "Game Changer", and "The Devil's Music".