Surname Overmann - Meaning and Origin
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Overmann: What does the surname Overmann mean?
The last name Overmann is of German origin and is derived from the English phrase 'over man', which translates to 'one in command' or 'taskmaster'. The name is an occupational name, used to describe someone who was in charge of a group of people, or the head of an organization.
The name Overmann evolved from variations of the German language, such as Oberman, Overman, Ouermen, Overmen, Uhman, and so forth. During the Middle Ages, the name held an important position in the hierarchy of German society. It was often used to denote headmen of villages or municipal overseers.
The spelling of the name changed over the centuries due to the local dialects of various regions, as well as subsequent migrations. Those bearing the name Overmann have served in a number of important roles throughout history. In the United States, a number of prominent Overmanns have served in the military and the government.
The name Overmann is associated with hard work, responsibility, and power. It represents unified leadership and those with such a name carry a sense of pride. Those bearing the name Overmann should strive to maintain its tradition of great accomplishment, leadership, and commitment.
Order DNA origin analysisOvermann: Where does the name Overmann come from?
The last name Overmann is most commonly found in Germany today. Many variant spellings of the name, however, are also found in nearby countries, including: Ovariani (Italy), Obermann (Luxembourg), Averman (Russia) and Overman (the Netherlands).
In Germany, the name is most frequently seen in the states of Bavaria, Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia, and there are several smaller clusters in other regions.
The first recorded usage of the name Overmann can be traced to medieval Germany, a time period associated with the height of the Holy Roman Empire in the 12th and 13th centuries. During this period, surnames were becoming popular, and Overmann first began to be used as an indicator of ownership – as a sign of having one’s own 'Over mann' or 'Mann der übergeht' (literally meaning 'man who is above').
The exact origin of the name Overmann remains uncertain, and there is speculation that it may have originally been a patronymic or a toponymic. However, what is certain is that the name Overmann has been around for centuries and remains common in Germany today.
Variations of the surname Overmann
The surname Overmann is an original German surname with variants depending on the region of origin. It may be spelt with one or two 'n's, as Overn or Overmann. Additional variants may include Oefern, Oeferman, Oefermann, Oefermaun, Oferman, Ooferman, Ofermann, and Ouferman.
A spelling variant of the surname Overmann is Ohvermann (or Oehvermann) which is more commonly inhabitant in southern Germany. This is likely the most original spelling of the surname. It is possible that the spelling of the surname has changed as a result of migrations, and other socio-cultural changes.
In addition to the many variants of the surname Overmann, there are several other surnames that are considered to be of the same origin or related to the surname Overmann. These surname variants include Oehverberg, Oelferman, Oelper, Oelpert, Oelpermann, Oerpel, Oerpmann, Lavermann, Overdorf, Overgaard, Overhagen, Overholt, Overhulser, Overmars, Overmyer, Overpeck, and Overstreet.
Overall, the surname Overmann is a very old German name with many variants spelt in many different ways. It is interesting to trace the origin, variants, and relationship between different surnames, especially those with the original spelling of Overmann.
Famous people with the name Overmann
- Anton Overmann: German chef and television chef appearing on the show “Bares für Rares.”
- Chris Overmann: Dutch music producer who specializes in electro, boom bap, hip-hop, and beatboxing music.
- Frank Overmann: German actor who appeared in a host of films including “The Edge of Heaven,” “A Coffee in Berlin,” “Nothing Bad Can Happen,” and “Mute”.
- Heinrich Overmann: German silversmith and metalworker who was active during the German Renaissance.
- Heinz Overmann: German painter who specialized in abstract art.
- Johann Friedrich Overmann: German theologian, professor of philosophy, and author of religious works.
- Jürgen Overmann: German painter and visual artist who is best known for his prints and postcards.
- Margaret Overmann: American photographer known for her writings on the art of photography.
- Mary Overmann: American businesswoman and entrepreneur who founded the Nordstrom department store chain.
- Stephen Overmann: American diplomat who served as the United Nations’ first Inspector General.