Surname Klefisch - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'K'
Klefisch: What does the surname Klefisch mean?
The surname Klefisch is of German origin, and it is likely derived from the Old High German word “klaf”, which means “key”. The name likely referred to someone who was known as a keymaster, or someone who had the keys to open and close gates or buildings.
In Germany, there are three distinct branches of the Klefisch surname, all of which have different coat of arms symbols. The most common branch is from the northeastern German states. This branch is symbolized by a black key on a silver shield. The second branch is from the south German city of Heidelberg. This branch is represented by a brown key on a red shield, and it is associated with an old city gate. Lastly, a branch of the Klefisch family is found in the southwestern German state of Baden-Württemberg. This branch is symbolized by a gold key on a black-and-white shield.
Throughout the centuries, the Klefisch family has spread beyond Germany, particularly in the 1800s and 1900s as people migrated to other countries in search of a better life. Today, the Klefisch surname is found in many countries around the world, and though the name has changed slightly in some places, the meaning remains the same—keymaster.
Order DNA origin analysisKlefisch: Where does the name Klefisch come from?
The surname Klefisch is most commonly found in Germany and parts of central Europe. It is also present in some parts of North America, primarily the United States, Canada, and Brazil.
In Germany, the surname is most often associated with the Rheinland and Hessen areas, which contain the state capital of Frankfurt. It is believed that the surname was brought to Germany from other European countries prior to the beginning of the 20th century.
In the United States, the name is most commonly found in Wisconsin. It is believed to have been introduced to the area with the influx of German immigrants throughout the 19th century. In Wisconsin, the surname is particularly prominent in the Milwaukee region.
In Canada, the surname is found mainly in the province of Ontario, where it is associated with German-speaking settlers from various areas in Europe.
Finally, in Brazil, the surname is most commonly linked to members of the large German descendant population, specifically in the cities of Blumenau, Joinville and Santa Catarina.
Overall, the surname Klefisch is most commonly found in Germany, various parts of North America, and Brazil. It is a predominantly German surname that has been passed down through the generations and immigrants of European descent.
Variations of the surname Klefisch
Klefisch is a German surname usually associated with those of German ancestry. It is often spelled as Kiefisch or Kleffisch in different parts of Germany. The Klefisch surname has several variants, including Kleefisch, Kleffisch, Kiefisch, Kiefesch, Kiefischesv, Kieffisch, Kuffeesch, and Kuffisch. Other variants of the Klefisch surname can include Kleiph, Kleifi, Kleifo, Kleif, Kleffen, Kleffner, Kleffke, Kleffenich or Klefferman.
It is important to note that some of these alternative spellings and surnames of the same origin may not be distinct surnames, but rather patronymic surnames derived from Klefisch. This means that some of the surnames may have been derived from the names of Klefisch family members, such as a parent or grandparent. For example, the Kiefischesv surname could be derived from the name of a Klefisch ancestor, Kief.
In addition to the variants of Klefisch and its patronymic surnames, the surname could also be found used in some regions of Germany as a locational surname. This is because some people may have taken the name of their place of residence as their surname. For example, those living near the town of Klefisch could have adopted the town name as their surname.
It is also important to note that the Klefisch surname is likely to have multiple origins, as is the case for many surnames. Therefore, while many of the variants of Klefisch are most likely related, some of them could also have other origins, such as occupational surnames or non-German origins.
Famous people with the name Klefisch
- Joe Klefisch: Wisconsin-based political commentator and former Legislative Liaison for Governor Scott Walker
- Mark Klefisch: former Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin
- Ernie Klefisch: former member of the Wisconsin State Assembly and retired sheriff
- Melissa Klefisch: former Wisconsin State Intergovernmental Relations Director
- Everett Klefisch: former member of the Wisconsin State Assembly
- Gary Klefisch: Wisconsin politician and former small business owner
- Deanna Klefisch: former Wisconsin State Representative
- Seppo Klefisch: professional broadcast journalist
- Brigitte Klefisch: German fashion designer
- Joshua Klefisch: LA-based actor, writer and producer