Surname Reibenspiess - Meaning and Origin

Reibenspiess: What does the surname Reibenspiess mean?

The last name Reibenspiess is of German origin and is an occupational name for a professional soldier or mercenary. The literal translation of the name breaks down into two parts: 'Reiben' and 'Spiess', with 'Reiben' translating to 'marching troops'. The root '[spiess]' is a word used to describe a long spear, or lance, used by medieval infantry. Thus, the name Reibenspiess can be interpreted to mean 'marching troops with spears'.

Reibenspiess is popular as a surname throughout Germany and Austria, as well as in countries all over the world with a long history of immigration from the German-speaking region. It is from this history that the name is so widespread, as many families chose to keep their surname as a link to their past. Additionally, Reibenspiess can also be used to indicate a personal relationship to military occupations, such as in families with deep-rooted military backgrounds.

The surname Reibenspiess has a strong sense of heritage and speaks to the rich history of German culture. The union of two words that describe a vital military role in the medieval period is a testament to the strength of such a people and hints at the courage and character of the individual who holds it.

Reibenspiess: Where does the name Reibenspiess come from?

The last name Reibenspiess is most commonly found in Germany, where it is believed to have originated. The Reibenspiess family first established itself in areas near Hanover, though there are other sources that suggest the family could have been in different regions of Germany up to and including the 16th century.

The Reibenspiess coat of arms features a "black lion rampant" with its paw on a green cliff, a pun intended to symbolize the family’s strength. This imagery of a sturdy wall on top of a cliff supports the idea that the Reibenspiess family, known for its sense of stability, long ensconced itself in the rugged landscape of Germany.

Today, the Reibenspiess surname remains the most common in parts of Germany, with many branches of the family still living in the regions of Hanover and Lower Saxony, particularly in the cities of Hanover, Peine, and Soltau. The Reibenspiess surname is also found in scattered areas of the United States, with mainly recent immigrants hailing from other German-speaking countries.

Variations of the surname Reibenspiess

The surname Reibenspiess is derived from the Germanic word for 'spearman', Reiven. The most common German spelling is Riebenspies, though many other variations also exist, such as Riebespiess, Reibenspies, Reibenspiess, and Reibenspigel. Other surnames with the same origin include Reibenacker, Reibenstein, Reibenstahl, Reibenstiehl, Reibin, Reibing, Reibsen, Reibshagen, Reibsham, Reibsland, Reibsohl, Reibstock, Reibsteck, Reibstutz, Riebsam, Riebse, and Riebsmeier.

The Reibenspiess surname is especially popular in German-influenced countries such as Austria and Switzerland. Throughout the centuries, many of its variants have found their way to North America, including the United States and Canada. Those coming from the Reibenspiess family tend to come from a proud military background, as the name itself is connected to its Germanic roots of the 'specarnan' or 'shieldman'.

Regardless of spelling, the Reibenspiess family often take immense pride in their heritage and many members can trace their ancestry back to ancient Germany. To this day, the name Reibenspiess remains distinct and an unmistakable reminder of Germany’s deep historical roots.

Famous people with the name Reibenspiess

• Hermann Reibenspiess: German World War II test pilot who flew Nazi Germany's fastest aircraft.
• Rudolf Reibenspiess: German U-boat commander during World War II credited with sinking 17 Allied ships.
• Karl Reibenspiess: German World War I pilot and recipient of the Pour le Merite Medal, also known as "The Blue Max".
• Georg Reibenspiess: German World War II bomber pilot and recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross.
• Harald Reibenspiess: German World War II paratrooper and recipient of the Iron Cross First Class.
• Clemens Reibenspiess: German World War II ace fighter pilot and member of the elite fighter squadron Jagdgeschwader 54.
• Oswald Reibenspiess: German World War II fighter pilot and recipient of the Silver Ehrenpokal Fighter Pilot Badge for bravery in battle.
• Heinz Reibenspiess: German World War II flying ace credited with 20 aerial victories.
• Ernst Reibenspiess: German World War II night fighter ace credited with 7 kills to his name.
• Willi Reibenspiess: German World War II Luftwaffe fighter pilot and recipient of the Honour Goblet of the Luftwaffe.

Other surnames

Reibenspies