Last Name Behr

Learn more about the origin of the last name Behr

The meaning and origin of the last name Behr

The surname Behr has both German and Jewish origins. In German, "Behr" is a variant of the word "bär," meaning "bear," indicating a person who may have exhibited characteristics associated with bears such as strength or ferocity. As a Jewish surname, Behr is a shortened form of the Yiddish name Bechor, derived from the Hebrew name Bechora, meaning "firstborn" or "eldest son." It is a common practice in Jewish communities to adopt surnames based on biblical names or titles to identify individuals within their community. Therefore, the surname Behr, in a Jewish context, could be assigned to a family whose ancestors held a significant position or played a role as the firstborn or eldest son. Over time, the surname Behr has spread beyond Germany and Jewish communities, becoming a name utilized by individuals of various backgrounds around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Behr

The last name Behr has a relatively widespread geographical distribution, with its origins primarily in German-speaking regions. In Germany itself, the name can be found throughout the country, with larger concentrations in regions such as Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, Hesse, and North Rhine-Westphalia. Outside of Germany, significant populations of people with the surname Behr can be found in countries like the United States, Canada, and South Africa. This can be attributed to historical migration patterns, with individuals and families emigrating from Germany to seek new opportunities or escape political or economic hardships. Over time, they established communities and continued to pass down the Behr name through subsequent generations. Today, due to globalization and increased mobility, individuals with the last name Behr can also be found in various other parts of the world, including Europe, Australia, and South America, though in smaller numbers.

Variants and spellings of the last name Behr

The last name Behr may have several variations and spellings. One variation is Bähr, which includes an umlaut over the "a" letter. Other possible variations can include Bayer, Baer, Baehr, Beir, Beher, or Bier. These variations might arise due to phonetic differences in pronunciation or regional dialects. Spelling differences can also occur when immigrants anglicize their surnames upon arrival in a new country. The Behr surname itself has Germanic origins and can be traced back to medieval times. It is derived from the Old High German word "bera" or "berō," meaning bear. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname may have changed as families migrated and settled in different regions across the world. Despite various variations and spellings, the common thread remains the same: a shared ancestral connection rooted in the original Behr name.

Famous people with the last name Behr

One well-known individual with the last name Behr is Max Behr, a prominent golfer and writer from the early 20th century. Born in 1884, Max Behr was not only a talented golfer but also employed his skills as a writer, becoming one of the most respected golf scribes of his time. He authored numerous articles and books on the sport, including "Golf: Facts and Fallacies" in 1925, which showcased his deep understanding and keen insight into the game of golf. Behr also served as a significant contributor to Golf Illustrated magazine and provided guidance and theories on course design. His work remains influential in golfing literature, with many considering him one of the pioneers and intellectual minds shaping the sport in its formative years.

Genealogical research on the last name Behr

The surname Behr is of German origin and can be traced back to the medieval era. It is derived from the Hebrew name "Bar" which means "son of," indicating a patronymic origin. The name Behr was first recorded in southwestern Germany in the 14th century, suggesting that the family may have originated from this region. Over time, members of the Behr family migrated to different parts of Germany and other countries, spreading the surname across various regions. Some individuals with the name Behr also made their way to the United States during the 19th century, likely seeking new opportunities. Like many other surnames, the spelling of Behr may have undergone changes over time, including variations such as Bähr or Baer. Genealogical research on the Behr family would involve examining historical records, census data, church registers, and possibly obtaining DNA testing to establish lineages and connections among different branches of the family.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Behr"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025