Surname Zingsem - Meaning and Origin

Zingsem: What does the surname Zingsem mean?

The last name Zingsem is of German origin, and likely derives from the German word ‘zinsen’, which means ‘interest’. Given that ‘zinsen’ has a variety of meanings, ranging from a fee paid for the use of money to the appreciation of a friend, the exact meaning of ‘Zingsem’ may be difficult to determine. However, due to the name’s association with interest, it is thought that the name is likely indicative of a family who had acquired wealth through business.

This theory is supported by the fact that Zingsem is a relatively rare last name, particularly outside of Germany. This would suggest that the family acquired a level of prosperity that enabled them to move around and establish a foothold in other countries. Indeed, many people with the last name Zingsem can be found in countries as far flung as the United States of America, Australia, and Canada.

Assuming that Zingsem does indeed signify prosperity, it is reasonable to assume that the name was prized by the family. This is evidenced by its persistence throughout the generations, and it's likely that the family viewed the name as a symbol of their success and hard work. For this reason, it is likely that Zingsem nevertheless holds a special place in the hearts of many, even if its precise origins remain a mystery.

Zingsem: Where does the name Zingsem come from?

The last name Zingsem is a relatively rare surname, though it is found in the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands. The earliest known record of the Zingsem surname is from 1750, when a Christian Jochim Zingsem was recorded in Germany.

Today, Zingsem is most prevalent in the United States, where it is estimated to be shared by around 5,000 Americans. It is most commonly found in Iowa, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Washington state. It is also common in Germany, particularly the west and south of the country, and in the Netherlands, primarily in the north.

The origins of the name are unclear. Some suggest that the name is Dutch in origin, derived from a combination of the words "zing" and "hem", meaning "he sings". Others point to a German origin, deriving from words meaning "royal crown" or "courtly house".

Regardless of its origin, the name Zingsem is a unique and special one that is found around the world. Even today, it is still a recognizable and meaningful last name, with those sharing it still proud to carry the name they were given by their ancestors long ago.

Variations of the surname Zingsem

The surname Zingsem is an occupational German name thought to derive from a Middle Low German term, “zingensäm,” as well as the Old High German, “zingan” or “singan.” Zingsem can be spelled a variety of ways, including Zingsem, Zingsam, Zeinsam, Zinsam, Zingessam, and Zingesem. Though the meaning of the name is contested, it is believed to signify someone who was a singer or vocalist, such as a minstrel or bard.

Variants and other spellings of Zingsem may be found as Zengerem, Zengersam, Zingsam, and Zinsam. The surnames Sengsamp, Seegsamp, Zenzem, Zingsam, Zingsamme, Zinsam, and Zingsemme may also appear, as these are derivatives of the original.

Certain individuals with the surname Zingsem have even adjusted its spelling in order to better fit the sound of their first name, such as Zingerle, Zingerli and Zingerly.

The Zingsem surname is not uncommon among various regions throughout Germany, particularly in the Lower Rhine region of North Rhine-Westphalia and in areas near the border of Switzerland. There are also sizable concentrations of people with the Zingsem name in the states of Kansas and Illinois within the United States, indicating a period of immigration from Germany and other countries in the early twentieth century.

Famous people with the name Zingsem

• Alyssa Zingsem: Alyssa Zingsem is an American model and television personality.
• Mira Zingsem: Mira Zingsem is a German photographer, film director, screenwriter, and producer.
• Karin Zingsem: Karin Zingsem is a German actress and director.
• Robin Zingsem: Robin Zingsem is an American video game developer and entrepreneur.
• Jodie Zingsem: Jodie Zingsem is a Canadian actress best known for her roles in TV series such as Kyle XY and Smallville.
• Katrina Zingsem: Katrina Zingsem is an American fashion designer, known for her collections for several brands in the US.
• Ella Zingsem: Ella Zingsem is a German singer, songwriter and producer of folk/country music.
• Alika Zingsem: Alika Zingsem is a Brazilian singer who formed part of the trio ‘Taxist’.
• Maggie Zingsem: Maggie Zingsem is an American fitness and nutrition coach.
• Henning Zingsem: Henning Zingsem is a German film director and screenwriter.

Other surnames

Zingsheim