Last Name Cafritz

The last name "Cafritz" is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "kaffreiz," which means "coffee grinder" or "coffee mill." The surname likely originated as an occupational name for someone who worked as a coffee grinder or was involved in the coffee trade. Over time, the name may have evolved to become "Cafritz."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cafritz

The meaning and origin of the last name Cafritz

Cafritz is a surname of Ashkenazi Jewish origin. It is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word "kapritz," meaning "goat." The surname may have been given to someone who had characteristics or traits associated with a goat, such as agility or stubbornness. Alternatively, it may have been an occupational surname for someone who worked as a goatherd or raised goats. The name Cafritz is predominantly found among Jewish communities in Eastern Europe, particularly in countries like Poland and Russia. Over time, many Jewish families with the surname Cafritz emigrated to the United States and other parts of the world, where the name has been passed down through generations. Today, the surname Cafritz is relatively rare and continues to be associated with Jewish heritage and ancestry.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cafritz

The surname Cafritz is most commonly found in the United States, specifically in the Washington, D.C. area. The Cafritz family is well-known for their real estate and philanthropic endeavors, particularly in the Washington metropolitan area. The name Cafritz is of Ashkenazi Jewish origin, with ancestral roots in Eastern Europe. While the majority of individuals with the last name Cafritz are concentrated in the United States, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, there are also some scattered instances of the surname in other parts of the world, such as Israel and Germany. Overall, the Cafritz name is relatively rare and primarily associated with individuals connected to the real estate industry or with ties to the Washington, D.C. community.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cafritz

The last name Cafritz can have variations and spellings such as Cafretz, Kafritz, Kafretz, Kafriz, Kafrits, and Kafriz. These variations may have been the result of transliteration, typo errors, or changes in pronunciation over time. The name Cafritz is of Eastern European origin and is believed to have derived from the Yiddish word "kafer," meaning beetle. It is common among Jewish families and can be found in regions where Yiddish-speaking populations have historically settled. Despite the different spellings, the pronunciation of the name remains fairly consistent, with the emphasis typically being on the first syllable (CAF-ritz). Members of the Cafritz family have made significant contributions to various fields such as business, real estate, philanthropy, and the arts.

Famous people with the last name Cafritz

The Cafritz family is a well-known and influential family in the Washington, D.C. area, with a long history of philanthropy and community involvement. One of the most famous members of the Cafritz family is Jane Cafritz, a prominent real estate developer and philanthropist who has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Washington, D.C. Jane Cafritz is known for her work on behalf of numerous charitable organizations and causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. Her dedication to giving back to the community has made her a beloved figure in the D.C. area. The Cafritz family's impact on the city can be felt in the numerous buildings and institutions that bear their name, serving as a lasting testament to their legacy of giving and service.

Genealogical research on the last name Cafritz

The Cafritz surname has its origins in Eastern Europe and is believed to be of Jewish descent. The name is thought to have been derived from the Yiddish word "cafr," which means "non-Jew" or "infidel." The Cafritz family likely began as a Sephardic Jewish family that migrated to Eastern Europe and eventually spread to other parts of the world. The name may have undergone various changes over the years, as is common with surnames of Jewish origin. Today, individuals with the Cafritz surname can be found in various countries, including the United States, where the family has made significant contributions to the fields of real estate and philanthropy. Further genealogical research may reveal more about the origins and history of the Cafritz family and its connections to other Jewish communities around the world.

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