Surname Ohrbach - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'O'
Ohrbach: What does the surname Ohrbach mean?
The surname Ohrbach does not have a readily available meaning, as it is relatively rare and presumably originates from Central or Eastern Europe, particularly regions that now constitute present-day Germany or Austria. It could be linked to the German word "ohr" meaning "ear" and "bach" meaning "stream". However, without specific genealogical research, this would only be a speculative interpretation. It is important to note that many surnames have evolved over time, being influenced by various factors including geographical location, occupation, patronymic or matronymic data, or even personal characteristics. Therefore, the original meaning of the surname Ohrbach could have significant variations depending on its ancestral origins. It is always beneficial to trace the lineage of specific surnames for a more accurate and personal understanding of their etymology.
Order DNA origin analysisOhrbach: Where does the name Ohrbach come from?
The last name Ohrbach has Germanic roots and is most commonly found in Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. However, thanks to migration and immigration, the name can also be found in other parts of Europe, as well as the United States and Canada.
In the United States, the largest concentrations of Ohrbachs are found in New York, California, Florida, and Illinois. This distribution reflects the both the East and West Coast waves of German migration in the 19th century. For instance, most of the Ohrbach family in California descended from Wilhelm Ohrbach, who settled in the Beaverton area in 1846.
The Ohrbach family is spread across the United States today, with the highest concentrations in New York, California, Florida, and Illinois. It is also found in pockets in Michigan, Texas, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, as well as Arizona and Nevada. Many of these descendants are now in the third or fourth generations, mostly living in urban areas.
The Ohrbach name is still prominent and continues to be celebrated. Members of the Ohrbach family are renowned and highly cherished for their contributions to society, be it in politics, the arts, education, or business.
Variations of the surname Ohrbach
Ohrbach is a unique surname of Jewish origin. There are a number of variations on the name, such as Ohrbacher, Ohrbock, Orbach, Orback, Orbacker, Orbasch, Orbach, Orbitz and Orbok. Additionally, there are some Yiddish versions of the name, such as Aurbakh, Aurbach, Orbakh and Orbokh. The most common variation of the name is Orbach, with the suffix "-bach" indicating a Jewish heritage and the origin of this variation of the surname from a place-name.
The "Ohr" prefix in this variation has connections to the Hebrew language. In modern Hebrew, the word "ohr" means "light" which is why the prefixes "O"- and "Aur"- are often associated with the surname Ohrbach. The meanings of these variations are thought to be connected to spiritual enlightenment and wisdom, which is why it could be seen as a sign of true faith in Judaism.
Other variations of the name may have been born out of necessity during times of persecution and assimilation in Europe when Jewish people had to convert to names that sounded, looked, or spelt less Jewish. In some cases, such as the "Orbokh" version of the name, this has resulted in a more Russian spelling of the name.
Although it is unclear exactly where the Ohrbach surname originated from, it is thought to have first come about in Germany due to its large Jewish population. Today, the most common variation of the name can be found in Israel, the United States, and Germany.
Famous people with the name Ohrbach
- Adam Ohrbach: a Broadway and film actor who recently starred in the off-Broadway production of 'Frankenstein'.
- Leonard Ohrbach: an American actor, director, producer, and composer who is best known for his roles in films such as 'Cocoon: The Return', 'Gremlins 2: The New Batch', and 'Tales from the Crypt'.
- David Ohrbach: a musical theater and film actor who is best known for his roles in 'The Silver Chair' and 'The Sound of Music'.
- Alfred Ohrbach: a theater and film actor, director, and producer whose credits include 'Sabrina', 'The Godfather', and 'Twelve Monkeys'.
- Mitch Ohrbach: a stage actor who appeared in various productions on Broadway as well as in the films 'The Man in the Iron Mask' and 'Rules of Engagement'.
- Dan Ohrbach: a television director who has directed episodes of hit shows like 'Law & Order: SVU', 'Gossip Girl', and 'The Defenders'.
- Mitchell Ohrbach: an American actor who starred as David in the film 'The Karate Kid Part II'.
- Lee Ohrbach: an actor and comedian known for his appearances in the films 'Catch Me If You Can' and 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding'.
- Jan Ohrbach: a German-American film actress who appeared in the classic film 'Casablanca' alongside Humphrey Bogart and Claude Rains.
- Richard Ohrbach: an American actor who starred in the CBS legal drama 'On Trial', as well as in the films 'Wedding Crashers' and 'Lars and the Real Girl'.