Surname Odem - Meaning and Origin

Odem: What does the surname Odem mean?

The surname Odem appears to have multiple origins and meanings depending on the cultural context. It is found in both Jewish and Germanic traditions.

In Jewish tradition, Odem is a Hebrew word which translates to "red" or "ruddy." This could possibly reference someone with a ruddy complexion, red hair, or someone who lived in a place known for its red soil or stonework. The first notable bearer of this name in the Bible is Eliphaz’s son (Genesis 36:15-16) who was one of the chieftains of Edom.

In Germanic context, the surname Odem could be a variant of the name Odum or Odema deriving from old pre 7th century Germanic compound “Odo” which means riches, plus “maere” implying famous. Therefore, this surname can be interpreted as “rich and famous.”

Please note that the exact history and meaning of most surnames can be difficult to ascertain as they have evolved over centuries and have been influenced by numerous factors including phonetic changes, geographic movements, occupational references, and character traits.

Odem: Where does the name Odem come from?

The last name Odem is found primarily in the United States and Israel. In the United States, the last name Odem is found predominantly in the states of South Carolina, Louisiana, and Texas. The four states combined claim almost 73% of all Odem surnames in the US. Many people with the last name Odem in the US trace their origins to European immigrants who settled in the southern states in the 19th century.

The remaining Odem surnames in the US are scattered throughout the other states, though they are relatively uncommon.

In Israel, the surname Odem is quite common, estimated to be the 77th most common surname in the country. It is believed this name is derived from the biblical Hebrew term "Odem". It is believed the surname was brought to the area by eastern European Jews who immigrated to Israel after World War II. There are many families that bear the name in Israel, particularly in and around Tel Aviv.

Given the broad geographic distribution of the name Odem, it is likely that you will encounter the name in many countries around the world. Though the highest proportions are found in the US, Israel, and eastern Europe, it is not uncommon to find someone with the same last name from another country.

Variations of the surname Odem

The surname Odem (also spelled Odem, Odeme, Odemie, and Odems) is one of the oldest and most common German surnames. It is believed to have originated with a region located in northern Germany known as Odenwald, which means "forest of oaks."

The surname Odem has several variants, including Odemer, Odems, Odam, Odema, Odemar, Odeman and Odom. It is also spelled Oden, Odum, and Odin, although the spelling is most commonly Odem.

Additionally, some variations of this surname exist in other countries, including Italy, France, and eastern Europe. For example, in Italian, the surname is spelled "Odelli" and in French, "Oudin."

Additionally, many patronymic and metronymic forms of Odem can be found, such as Odemsen, Odemsen, and Odms. These forms usually denote that the family originally came from the region where the Odem name originated.

Overall, Odem is one of the oldest and most common German surnames. It has several variants and spellings, as well as related surnames from other countries that trace back to the same roots in the Odenwald region of northern Germany.

Famous people with the name Odem

• Jerry Odem: former American football defensive tackle, who played nine seasons in the National Football League (NFL).
• Ed Odem: American politician who served as the U.S. Representative for Texas’ 11th Congressional district from 1961 to 1965.
• Jay Odem: American actor best known for his roles in films such as Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story, Bride Wars and Fire with Fire.
• John Odem: American social studies educator and politician, who currently serves as the Chairman of the Texas House Appropriations Committee.
• Elbert Odem: former Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielder who played for eight teams from 1966 to 1980.
• Michael Odem: American football defensive end who played two seasons in the NFL.
• Charlie Odem: professional mixed martial artist and winner multiple titles such as World Combat Sambo Championship and TUFF-E-NUFF Lightweight Championship.
• Scott Odem: former Major League Baseball pitcher who played seven seasons in the MLB.
• Jerry Odem Jr.: American television actor best known for his role as Danny in That’s So Raven.
• Phill Odem: American actor best known for his roles in films such as The Good Girl, Central Station, and Caveman.

Other surnames

OdeOdearOdebrechtOdechowskiOdeerOdehnalOdeirOdekerkenOdekirkOdellOdemannOdemarOdemerÖdemisOdendaalOdendahlOdendalOdendallOdenkirchenOdentahlOdenthalOdenwaellerOdenwaldOdenwälderOdenwaldtOdenwällerOdenwellerÖderOdernheimerOdewald