Surname Zehentmeir - Meaning and Origin
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Zehentmeir: What does the surname Zehentmeir mean?
The last name Zehentmeir is of German origin and is derived from the two words zehe (meaning "of seven") and meier (meaning "mayor"). Historically, the name referred to a person who was elected to serve as mayor for seven years. As such, the Zehentmeir last name typically indicates a family that has held high political office or otherwise shown exceptional leadership in their local community.
People with the Zehentmeir last name were likely well-respected in their respective communities, as the position of mayor is an important one that requires a lot of responsibility and skill. As a mayor, one had to oversee and manage the community’s political and economic affairs, as well as ensure law and order was maintained. Serving as mayors for seven years may also indicate the families’ and individuals’ aptitude for diplomacy, as such a long tenure in office implies they must have been highly successful in carrying out their duties.
Given the authority they had, people with the Zehentmeir last name may have wielded considerable influence over their respective communities. Furthermore, they may have played a significant role in the development and welfare of their people. As such, the Zehentmeir last name may represent a family proud of their ancestral success in not only accommodating their community's needs, but also in making a lasting, positive impact in the lives of their people.
Order DNA origin analysisZehentmeir: Where does the name Zehentmeir come from?
The last name Zehentmeir is most commonly found in Germany. It is most commonly found in the southeastern states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg and is also known as Zehendmeier or Zehendmaier. The name is derived from the Bavarian word ‘zehent’ which means a tenth or tithe payable to the Church. The use of the term in the last name is thought to indicate that the family may have been responsible for collecting tithes in the past.
In other parts of the German speaking world it is not as common, but there are some occurrences in Austria, Switzerland, Poland, and Czech Republic. There is also evidence of the name in the United States in immigration records from the mid 19th century, which indicates that some families may have emigrated from Germany in search of better opportunities.
Today there are many people who live in Germany, other parts of Europe, and the United States who carry the last name Zehentmeir. Whether they are direct descendants from those who originally used it or whether they have adopted it more recently, it seems to have endured beyond the centuries and continues to identify individuals of shared heritage.
Variations of the surname Zehentmeir
The surname Zehentmeir is believed to be of German origin. It is a derivation of an early Germanic personal name Zegen, meaning either "gift" or "victory". Variants of the surname Zehentmeir include Zegenmeir, Seganmeier, Zehnmeir, Zehnmeier, Seibenmeir, and Zehnmayr. Other potential spellings of Zehentmeir include Zehentmaier and Zehentmeyer.
A number of variations of the Zehentmeir surname exist around the world, including in Europe, the United States, and Canada. In the United States, Seganmeier and Seibenmeyer are common variants found in Pennsylvania Dutch areas, while Zehnmeir and Zehnmayr appear to be more prevalent in German-speaking areas in the Midwest. The Zegenmeier variant may have originated in Austria, as well as the United States.
In Europe, the Zehentmeir surname can be found in Austria and Germany. Variations of the surname include Zehnmeir, Zehnmeier, and Zehnmayr - all of which are more common in Germany. In Austria, the variants Seganmeier and Seibenmeir are predominantly found.
In Canada, the surname Zehentmeir is spelled as Zehnmeir and is commonly found among Canadian-German and Mennonite families. Variations of Zehentmeir may also be found in other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Although the exact origin of the Zehentmeir surname is unknown, it is clear that the variations are numerous. The surname seems to have evolved over time, and its variants continue to be found throughout the world today.
Famous people with the name Zehentmeir
- Alexander Zehentmeir: Austrian windsurfing champion, winner of the World Championships and European Championships.
- Barbara Zehentmeir: Austrian model and singer, best known for her appearances on talk shows and reality television.
- Christian Zehentmeir: Austrian producer and director, winner of a BAFTA Award for Best Short Film.
- Felix Zehentmeir: Austrian-born actor, best known for his role in the moviearm the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2.
- Hans Zehentmeir: Austrian cyclist, two-time world champion in the amateur road race.
- Mani Zehentmeir: Austrian architect whose work includes renovations to the Cathedral of Graz.
- Martin Zehentmeir: Austrian ski jumper, winner of multiple medals at the Olympic and World Championships.
- Stefan Zehentmeir: Austrian composer and conductor, best known for composing the music for the documentary film The Bergmann-Kreisky scandal.
- Susanna Zehentmeir: Austrian writer and photographer, best known for her novel A House of Stories. 10.Wolfgang Zehentmeir: Austrian painter and sculptor, recognized for his works incorporating elements from nature.