Surname Kleineke - Meaning and Origin
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Kleineke: What does the surname Kleineke mean?
The last name Kleineke is of German origin. It is thought to be a variant form of the name Klein, a diminutive of the German male name “Konrad,” meaning “bold advisor.” The use of Klein as a last name came about in the 1500s. The spelling of the last name gradually changed to Kleineke, especially in German-speaking regions.
The surname Kleineke indicates a small stature or status. One’s ancestors might have had a small amount of land or resources – however, this does not necessarily mean the individuals were poor. This could have been one family’s way of distinguishing themselves from others. In essence, “Kleineke” was a name reserved for those who held a certain level of authority or influence.
Kleineke might also refer to a lineage of skilled craftsmen. Small craftsmen and artisans were usually referred to as "Kleine” or "Kleineke" since their work required a deft, precise hand. It was a title of respect bestowed upon talented workers, as skill had become a point of pride among the nobility of the time.
In modern Germany, the name is still seen in areas around Berlin and Hamburg. To have the Kleineke surname today is a badge of honor to show a familial relationship that goes back centuries.
Order DNA origin analysisKleineke: Where does the name Kleineke come from?
The last name Kleineke is most common today in the United States. According to Public Profiler’s World Names report, the name Kleineke is the 4,892nd most common last name in the US, and is primarily found in the Midwestern states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Iowa.
In each of these states, the name Kleineke is very sparsely used, with the overwhelming majority being found among the German-American population in counties bordering the Great Lakes. Records from the late 19th and early 20th century show an influx of immigrants from Germany, Austria, and Bohemia into Wisconsin, Minneosta, and Iowa, and particularly among Mennonite and Amish communities.
The origins of the name Kleineke are unclear. It may come from the German word 'Klein', meaning 'small', or from the Old High German word 'Klaine', meaning 'brave'. As with many ethnic surnames, it is likely to have been adopted by a family who sought to honor their German heritage or distinguish themselves from other generations.
Although the name Kleineke is no longer widely used, it is likely to be cherished by its remaining Bearers and the many families who have borne the name in the past.
Variations of the surname Kleineke
The surname Kleineke is of German origin and is derived from the Germanic word 'klein' meaning 'small'. It is commonly seen spelled as Kleineke, Kleinke, Kleinkeh, Kleinck, Kleinkö, Kleineck, Kleinek, Kleinkem and Kleinkemper. Alternate spellings include Kleineck, Kleingke, Kleinke, Kleinske, Kleynke, Klienke, Kliencke, and Klienck.
Variant spellings and surnames that are thought to be related to Kleineke include Kleemke, Kleemann, Kleemeyer, Kleykamp, Kleymeir, Klientop, Kleinemeyer, Kleyne, Kleen, Kleeman, Kleeneman, Kleenopp, Kleinman, Klinemann, Klineman, Kleeck, Kleemeyer, Kleemann, and Kleenemann.
In Europe, the surname Kleineke is primarily found in The Netherlands and Germany. It has been found across many regions and is especially prevalent in countries that have strong Dutch influences. It is also found in other countries in Europe, such as France, Austria, Switzerland, and Belgium.
In the United States, the name Kleineke is a relatively uncommon surname. It is chiefly found in the Midwest states such as Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. The Kleineke family crest, according to a German database, is a shield with a silver background and a tree in the center, which is a symbol of strength and continuity.
Famous people with the name Kleineke
- Debora Kleineke: Debora is a Brazilian television presenter, journalist, and director.
- Martin Kleineke: Martin is a German Distance Runner, and regularly competes at half-marathon and 10K races.
- Steve Kleineke: Steve is an American Christian recording artist and worship leader.
- Florian Kleineke: Florian is a multi-talented creative, working in set design, music, and photography.
- Anja Kleineke: Anja is an Austrian classical pianist, composer, and arranger.
- Jesse T. Kleineke: Jesse is an American entrepreneur, investor, and real estate developer.
- Markus Kleineke: Markus is a German photonics engineer and professor at the University of Oldenburg.
- Bill Kleineke: Bill is an American professional basketball coach.
- Axel Kleineke: Axel is a German-born cinematographer and filmmaker based in Spain.
- Christopher Kleineke: Christopher is an American television actor, best known for his roles in The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless.