What is the origin of the last name Flatau?

The last name Flatau is of German origin and is derived from a place name. It comes from the name of several villages in Poland called Flatau, which means "flat meadow" in the Old Prussian language. Over time, people who lived in or near these villages adopted the name as their surname.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Flatau

The surname Flatau is of German origin and is derived from the old Slavic word "flato," which means "broad" or "spread out." It is believed to have been used as a topographic name for someone who lived in a broad, open area or as a nickname for someone who was seen as broad in stature or appearance. The name may have also been used to describe someone who was known for having a wide range of interests or talents. The surname Flatau is relatively uncommon and can also be found in Jewish communities, particularly those with Polish or German heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Flatau

The surname Flatau is of German origin and is most commonly found in Germany, particularly in the northern regions such as Schleswig-Holstein and Lower Saxony. It is also present in Poland, where it is more prevalent in the western regions near the border with Germany. Additionally, there are smaller concentrations of individuals with the surname Flatau in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Israel, largely due to migration patterns from Europe. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Flatau is primarily centered in Germany and Poland, with smaller pockets of individuals bearing this surname residing in other countries around the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Flatau

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Famous people with the last name Flatau

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Genealogical research on the last name Flatau

The surname Flatau is of German origin and is believed to be derived from the Old High German word "flachouwe" meaning 'broad meadow.' The name is commonly found in the regions of Silesia and Pomerania in present-day Poland. Genealogical research suggests that the Flatau family has a long history in these regions, with records dating back to the 17th century. The family may have been landowners or farmers, as the name's meaning implies a connection to the land. Over time, some members of the Flatau family may have migrated to other countries, such as the United States, where variations of the surname can be found. Further research into church records, census data, and other historical documents could provide more insight into the Flatau family's origins and migration patterns.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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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.

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