Surname Knapp - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'K'
My iGENEA DNA Test Results: A Journey from Western to Eastern Europe Unfolding the Heritage of Surname Knapp
The marvellous revelations brought forth by my iGENEA DNA test intricately uncovers my lineage deeply rooted in the history of Western and Eastern Europe. The scientific findings show that the surname Knapp doesn't merely symbolize an English occupational name but carries a story stretching back to an ancient Celtic tribe, marking an unexpected diversity in my genetic heritage.
X. Knapp
read moreKnapp: What does the surname Knapp mean?
The surname Knapp has both English and German origins. In English, it was originally a topographical name derived from the Old English term "cnæpp", meaning hilltop. Thus, individuals with this surname were likely from a hilltop or summit.
In German, Knapp also refers to someone who is close or near, derived from the Middle High German term "knapp," which means short or scant. However, it can also be an occupational name, stemming from the Middle High German word "knappe", a term for a journeyman or a squire. It would mean people with this surname either lived near to the main settlement or were a knave/servant.
Overall, the meaning of the surname Knapp largely depends on the cultural and geographical context it is used in.
Order DNA origin analysisKnapp: Where does the name Knapp come from?
The surname Knapp originates from Germany and the UK. In German, it means a young boy or servant, while in the UK context, it is of Old English origin, with "cnæp" meaning hilltop. The surname morphed over time to become "Knapp".
Geographical locations with this surname became common likely due to a family from that area taking on the surname. For instance, towns in England named Knapp are located in Somerset and Worcestershire.
Today, the last name Knapp is still relatively common in Germany, England, and the United States. It is particularly prevalent in the US states of New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. It's more infrequent in Canada, Australia, and South Africa.
Notable people with this surname include the American actress Alexandra Knapp and the US politician Ryan Knapp. Overall, while the surname retains a global presence, it's not among the most common last names worldwide.
Variations of the surname Knapp
The surname Knapp has various variants, spellings, and possibly related surnames of the same origin. These may include Knap, Knape, Knappes, Knappe, Napp, Nap, Cnape, and Knepp. Some variations may also include slight changes such as Knapper, Knappman, or Knapman.
The surname appears to have derived from the pre-7th century Old English word 'cnæp', which meant summit or top of a hill, or the top of anything. Alternatively, it could've derived from the Middle High German word 'knappe', meaning a young squire or servant. Therefore, some related surnames might also derive from these words or similar occupations or geographies.
The surname is quite common in the UK, Germany and in German-speaking parts of Europe, making any alternative spellings or variants highly regional. Some German variants may include names such as Knepp or Knöpp.
Due to the commonality and variation in the spelling and pronunciation of the name, some surnames may seem related but may have completely different origins. Therefore, it is always important to confirm through genealogical records.
Famous people with the name Knapp
- Anna Knapp: American lawyer and Judge
- Charles Knapp: American financial economist
- Clifford Knapp: 19th century English art photographer
- Garth Knapp: American soccer player
- Helen Gray Knapp: American author
- Hugh Knox Knapp: Canadian military officer
- Janet Knapp: 19th century artist from Canada
- Louis Knapp: 19th century American landscape artist
- Mary Jane Knapp: 19th century hymnwriter
- Robert O. Knapp: American mechanical engineer
- Rudolph Knapp: American football player
- Scott Knapp: American politician
- Tim Knapp: American actor
- Vincent Knapp: 19th century American Civil War photographer
- Warren Knapp: American tennis player
- Zac Knapp: American artist, engineer, and musician