Surname Hochestetler - Meaning and Origin
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Hochestetler: What does the surname Hochestetler mean?
The last name Hochestetler is of German origin. It is derived from the German personal name “Hocken,” which is an old German word meaning “hawk” or “falcon.” Consequently, Hochestetler is often translated as “hawk’s nest” or “falcon’s nest,” suggesting an association with hunting or falconry.
The Hochestetler surname has been recorded in Germany since the 14th century. Early documentation of the name reveals the Hochestetler family was prominent in various regions of the country, particularly in Bavaria and Franconia. This suggests a strong connection between the Hochestetler family and the medieval German states that were once part of the medieval Holy Roman Empire.
As the name became more established, its variations increased. In some areas, it was transformed into “Hochsteter” or “Hochstetler,” and in other areas, it was somehow shortened to just “Hocker.”
As more and more Germans left their homeland to begin new lives in North America, the name Hochestetler traveled with them. It is now mainly found in the United States, where it is most common in Pennsylvania and Ohio, states with historically large German-speaking populations.
The name Hochestetler is associated with a proud family heritage that is rich in history and tradition. The meaning of the name—”hawk’s nest”—brings to mind the strength, courage, and skill that characterize its bearers.
Order DNA origin analysisHochestetler: Where does the name Hochestetler come from?
The last name Hochestetler is most commonly found in certain areas of the United States. The highest concentration of individuals with this surname is reported in Indiana, where more than 1,382 people can be found. Other states with significant populations of the Hochestetler surname include Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The name is also found in a small number of states across the Southern United States, with fewer than 100 people carrying the name reported in those states.
The surname Hochestetler is of German origin, derivatives of the Middle High German word “Hochstetel”, which means “high seat”. This likely refers to a person who held a noble or powerful position within their community. It is believed that the Hochestetler family came to Pennsylvania from Germany in the late 1700s, likely due to religious and political issues in their native country.
Today, the surname Hochestetler is most closely associated with the Amish and Mennonite populations, though it is not exclusive to this demographic. The Hochestetler family is an example of how immigration has shaped the American population, and the name is still found in many parts of the United States.
Variations of the surname Hochestetler
The variations, spellings and surnames of the same origin for the surname Hochestetler are Hofstetter, Hohstetler, Hostetter, Hostetler, Houstetter, and Huestetler.
Hofstetter is a German surname derived from "hofstetter" meaning “steward of the court.” It was possibly the name of a low-level court official or a large landowner. It was most commonly found in the south-central German region of Württemberg, Bavaria, and Baden.
Hohstetler is a simplified variation of Hofstetter and is thought to have originated in Europe in the 1600’s as a variation of the name Hofstetter. It is difficult to pinpoint which country or region Hohstetler began in but we do know that it is commonly found in the United States.
Hostetter is derived from the English and German word “Hostetter” which references the occupation of an innkeeper. It is believed the Hostetter surname first originated in Germany, and has since spread to many areas such as America, Britain, Canada, and Australia.
Hostetler is an Old German word derived from the word “hose” which means “clothing.” It was the name of a person who sold or made clothing, and the name is commonly found in the U.S., Canada, Britain, and other former British colonies.
Houstetter is an Americanized version of the German name “Hofstetter”. It is derived from the German word “hof” meaning court, and “stetter” meaning steward of the court. It is commonly found in the United States and Canada.
Huestetler is a variation of the surname Hostetler and may have been used for several generations. It is most commonly found in the United States, Canada, and Australia, and is derived from the German word “hose” meaning clothing.
Famous people with the name Hochestetler
- Blessing Hochestetler: A former artist-in-residence at Virginia Commonwealth University.
- Gayle Hochestetler: A local community volunteer and activist for the deaf and blind population.
- Maria Hochestetler: A professional stuntwoman who has worked on several blockbuster films.
- Priscilla Hochestetler: An accomplished musician and singer, Priscilla is best known for her ornate harmonic blends of indie pop and acapella.
- David Hochestetler: Anthropologist, professor, and author of over 50 journal articles devoted to the study of economic and cultural exchange.
- Jordan Hochestetler: A renowned video game developer with several critically acclaimed titles to his name.
- Lewis Hochestetler: A former all-star professional baseball player who made a name for himself with the Boston Red Sox.
- Jack Hochestetler: An award winning wildlife photographer and his works have been featured in major media outlets.
- Abbie Hochestetler: An Olympic gold medalist from the USA softball team in 2000.
- Charlotte Hochestetler: A successful businesswoman and entrepreneur who has started multiple successful companies.