Surname Zickgraf - Meaning and Origin
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Zickgraf: What does the surname Zickgraf mean?
The last name Zickgraf is derived from the German word "Zickengraf", meaning "Count of the Hedgehogs". The name Zickgraf has been traced back to the Middle Ages and is known to originate in what is now Germany. The earliest known spelling of the name was "Zikengraf", which was found in documents dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
The name Zickgraf is a hereditary noble title of Bavaria, and is a popular name in southern Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the surrounding countries. It is believed that those who bore the Zickgraf name came from a prominent and influential family. The name was traditionally given to those in positions of leadership and power.
The specific meanings behind the name vary, depending on the country or region. In some areas, the name Zickgraf is representative of a family that is inquisitive, hardworking, and determined. In other areas of Europe, the name is believed to represent wealth and status.
Though the exact origins of the name are unclear, the Zickgraf surname remains popular in Europe to this day. Those who bear the Zickgraf name can enjoy the legacy and pride of knowing they are descended from a family of influential and important lineage.
Order DNA origin analysisZickgraf: Where does the name Zickgraf come from?
The last name Zickgraf is most common in the United States today. According to records in Ancestry.com, more than 15,000 people with this surname currently live in the U.S. In order of popularity, the states with the most Zickgraf’s living there are Minnesota, Ohio, Texas, Illinois, New York, Iowa, and Pennsylvania.
The name is of German origin and has roots in the Rhineland area. It comes from the german words zick (meaning potato) and graf (meaning count). Blended together, the literal translation is potato count, and likely began as a surname for a potato farmer who owned land.
The first known Zickgraf in the United States, Gustav Zickgraf, immigrated from Germany in 1868. He settled in Dundy County, Nebraska and is the ancestor of larger Zickgraf family branches, who have since spread across the U.S. In fact, many people of this last name can trace their ancestors to Dundy County and the surrounding towns.
Although most Zickgraf family members are found in the United States, other branches can be found living in other parts of the world, such as Canada, Mexico, and other countries in Central and South America.
No matter where they live today, the Zickgraf family has carried a strong sense of heritage and traditions across the globe. In the U.S. they are very active members of their local communities, taking part in cultural events such as weddings, reunions, and other celebrations.
Variations of the surname Zickgraf
The surname Zickgraf has various different variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin. Some of the most commonly seen variations include Ziegler, Zickefoose, Zieglergraff, Zieggraf, Zieckgraf, Ziegiff, Zigler, and Ziegraf.
The surname Ziegler is believed to be the oldest form of the name, with Zickefoose being the most commonly seen in the United States today. This variation is thought to be derived from the similar sounding Germanic root meaning “one who piles stones”.
The surname Zieglergraff is a combination of both 'Ziegler' and 'Graff', the latter being a derivative of a word meaning “peddler” or “traveller”. This variation is typically found in southern Germany.
Zieggraf, Zieckgraf and Ziegiff are believed to have emerged from Bavaria in the 17th century. It is likely that these variations share the same root word as Ziegler, but with phonetic changes in spelling.
Zigler is another variation of the surname which is commonly found in southeastern Germany and eastern Poland. It is believed that this version might provide a link from a similar name in the Slavic language.
The root word for the surname Ziegraf, is “Ziegeler”, which originated in the Central German area of Wurttemberg. This variation is normally seen in southern Germany.
Overall, the surname Zickgraf has evolved throughout Germany over time, and can be seen in various forms and spellings today. The variations share similar roots, with each variation likely developing phonetically during different time periods.
Famous people with the name Zickgraf
- Leonard Zickgraf: Leonard Zickgraf (born 1929) is an American actor who has appeared on multiple television shows, films, and theater productions during a career that spans over five decades. He has had guest appearances on shows like Hill Street Blues, Magnum P.I., and Cheers, as well as feature films like The China Syndrome (1979) and A Few Good Men (1992).
- Linda Zickgraf: Linda Zickgraf (born 1965) is an American attorney and activist who is involved with the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation, an organization which provides college scholarships to the children of Marines and law enforcement personnel who gave their lives in the line of duty or have severe disabilities as a result of service. She is also a member of the board of directors for Women in Military Service to America, an organization dedicated to recognizing and honoring women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
- Michael Zickgraf: Michael Zickgraf (born 1950) is an American Olympic rower who competed in the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany. He was a member of the U.S. men's four without coxswain team, which won the gold medal in the event.
- N absence Zickgraf: N absence Zickgraf (also known simply as NAP) is an American musical duo formed in 1999 by Libby Montgo and her partner Allan Zickgraf. They have released four albums in the indie-pop genre, as well as a live performance CD and accompanying DVD.