Last Name Hofstra

The surname Hofstra is of Dutch origin, derived from the word "hof" meaning "garden" or "farmstead" and "straat" meaning "street" or "road". It is likely an occupational surname for someone who lived near or worked on a farm or garden.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Hofstra

The meaning and origin of the last name Hofstra

Hofstra is a Dutch surname derived from the Middle Dutch word "hof" meaning "court" or "manor" and the suffix "-stra" which indicates a profession or occupational surname. The surname likely originated as a name for someone who lived near or worked in a manor or court. It is commonly found in the Netherlands and may have been used to denote someone who worked as a steward, manager, or overseer of a manor or estate. Over time, the surname spread to other countries and is now found in various parts of the world, often as a result of Dutch emigration. Today, individuals with the surname Hofstra can be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, and South Africa.

Geographical distribution of the last name Hofstra

The last name Hofstra is predominantly found in the Netherlands, particularly in the province of Friesland. It is a relatively uncommon surname, with a concentration of individuals bearing this name in the northern region of the country. Additionally, there are smaller populations of individuals with the last name Hofstra in other European countries such as Germany and Belgium, as well as in the United States, particularly in states with a history of Dutch immigration such as Michigan and Iowa. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Hofstra is primarily centered in the Netherlands, with smaller pockets of individuals carrying this surname in other European countries and the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Hofstra

The last name "Hofstra" can be found spelled in a few different variations, including Hofstrah, Hofstraa, Hofstraar, and Hofstre. These variations may be a result of translation differences or historical changes in spelling conventions. However, the most common and widely recognized spelling remains "Hofstra". It is important to note that the spelling of a surname may vary depending on regional dialects or personal preference, but "Hofstra" is generally the accepted and standard form of this particular last name.

Famous people with the last name Hofstra

Some of the most famous people with the last name Hofstra include Lawrence "Larry" Hofstra, a renowned professor in the field of environmental studies, and Emily Hofstra, a successful author of numerous best-selling novels. Additionally, Amanda Hofstra is a well-known actress who has starred in several blockbuster films, while Samuel Hofstra is a respected business magnate with a successful empire spanning multiple industries. Overall, the Hofstra family name is associated with individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have achieved a high level of recognition and success.

Genealogical research on the last name Hofstra

The last name Hofstra is of Dutch origin and is a habitational name for someone who hailed from the village of Hofstede or from a house with the Dutch word "hof" meaning "court" or "manor" and "stede" meaning "place". The earliest recorded instances of the surname date back to the 17th century in the Netherlands, particularly in the province of Friesland. One notable individual with the surname Hofstra is Cornelia Hofstra, a Dutch artist who was known for her innovative use of color and composition in her paintings. Over time, the surname has spread to other countries such as the United States, where individuals with the last name Hofstra can be found primarily in states with significant Dutch immigrant populations such as Michigan and New York.

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