Last Name Grimm

The surname "Grimm" is of German origin. It is derived from a number of Germanic given names that contain the element "grim," meaning "fear" or "dread." These names include Grimoald, Grimbert, Grimald, and Grimwald. The family name Grimm likely originated as an occupational name for someone who had a fearsome or intimidating appearance or behavior, such as a warrior or judge. The surname is most famously associated with the Brothers Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm, who collected and published fairy tales in the 19th century.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Grimm

The meaning and origin of the last name Grimm

The surname Grimm is of Germanic origin, derived from the Old High German word "grimmaz," meaning "raven" or "a fierce or grim person." It was originally a nickname given to someone with dark hair or a stern expression, or someone who lived near ravens. The name became more common during the Middle Ages, particularly in regions such as Swabia and Bavaria, where it was often spelled as Grim, Grym, or Grume. One of the most famous families bearing the name is the Brothers Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, who collected and published numerous folktales that have become well-known worldwide, contributing significantly to the study of comparative folk tales and fairy tale literature.

Geographical distribution of the last name Grimm

The surname Grimm is predominantly found in German-speaking regions, particularly Germany and Switzerland, where it originated. It also has a significant presence in Austria and Liechtenstein due to historical population movements. In the United States, many individuals with the last name Grimm are of German descent, with high concentrations in states such as Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Wisconsin, which have historically received a large number of German immigrants. The surname can also be found in countries with a substantial German immigrant population, such as Canada and Brazil. Additionally, it has been dispersed through migration to other parts of the world, including Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. Overall, the distribution of the last name Grimm reflects historical patterns of German immigration and settlement.

Variants and spellings of the last name Grimm

The surname Grimm, derived from the German word for "crane," has several variations and spellings across different regions and historical periods. The most common spelling is Grimm, but it can also be found as Grmm, Grim, Graem, Graeme, Greym, Greyme, and Grime in some records, especially those dating back to the Middle Ages or earlier. Additionally, there are variations that may have arisen due to migration and assimilation, such as de la Grima, von der Grimm, von der Grime, and DeGraff or Degraff. Furthermore, the name can be found with diacritical marks in some cases, like Grimmë or Grímm, reflecting regional dialects or transcriptions. The various forms of the surname Grimm have been borne by numerous significant figures, including the Brothers Grimm, renowned for their collection of fairy tales.

Famous people with the last name Grimm

The Grimm family is notable for its association with German fairy tales. Jacob (1785-1863) and Wilhelm Grimm (1786-1859), two brothers, are the most renowned members. Known collectively as the Brothers Grimm, they dedicated their lives to studying and publishing folklore, primarily focusing on fairy tales which have since become internationally recognized. Their work includes classic tales such as "Cinderella," "Hansel and Gretel," "Little Red Riding Hood," "Rapunzel," and "Snow White." Their collected works, titled Grimms' Fairy Tales, has significantly influenced modern literature and popular culture. The Grimm brothers' tales continue to be a cornerstone of children's literature worldwide.

Genealogical research on the last name Grimm

The Grimm surname originates from the Middle Ages, with roots traced to Germany. It is an occupational name derived from the Germanic word "gramma" or "grimo," meaning "teacher" or "priest." Over time, it has variously been spelled as Greim, Gremm, and Grimm. Notable figures bearing this surname include Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, the brothers who compiled Grimm's Fairy Tales, which have become a significant part of Western literature. The Grimm family is believed to have originated in the region of Hesse, Germany, although early records are scarce. The name has spread globally as German immigrants dispersed across Europe and the Americas throughout history. Today, the Grimm surname can be found in many countries, reflecting its rich and diverse heritage.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Grimm"
• 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 June 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends