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Last Name Holz

What is the origin of the last name Holz?

The last name Holz is of German origin and is derived from the Middle Low German word "holz," which means "wood" or "forest." It likely originated as a topographic surname for someone who lived near a wood or forest. The name is common in Germany and other German-speaking countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Holz

The meaning and origin of the last name Holz

Holz is a surname of German origin, meaning "wood" or "forest" in English. The name likely originated as an occupational surname for someone who worked with wood, such as a carpenter or woodcutter. It could also have been a topographic name for someone who lived near or in a wooded area. The surname Holz is common in Germany and other German-speaking countries, with variations such as Holzer and Holzman also existing. As a German surname, Holz may have been passed down through generations as a way to preserve family heritage and traditions related to woodworking or forestry.

Geographical distribution of the last name Holz

The last name Holz is of German origin, meaning "wood" or "timber" in English. It is a relatively common surname in Germany, particularly in the regions of North Rhine-Westphalia, Bavaria, and Baden-Württemberg. Outside of Germany, the surname can also be found in countries with strong German immigrant populations, such as the United States, Brazil, and Argentina. In the US, states with the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Holz include California, Texas, and Illinois. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Holz is mainly concentrated in German-speaking countries and regions with a significant German diaspora, reflecting the surname's origins and historical connections to the German language and culture.

Variants and spellings of the last name Holz

The surname Holz, of German origin, has several variations and spellings. Some common alternative spellings include Holtz, Holltz, and Holts. These variations may have evolved over time through linguistic changes or regional dialects. Additionally, the surname may have been anglicized in countries outside of Germany, resulting in variations like Holtsman or Holtzmann. The pronunciation of the surname may also vary depending on the individual or region, with some pronouncing it as "holts" and others as "hohlts." Despite these variations, the meaning of the surname remains consistent, derived from the German word for "wood" or "forest." Overall, the surname Holz has a rich history and a variety of spellings that reflect its heritage and evolution over time.

Famous people with the last name Holz

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Holz is Bruno Holz, a German sculptor known for his expressionist artwork that often depicted scenes from Norse mythology. Another notable figure is Alex Holz, an Australian professional poker player who has earned several million dollars in tournament winnings over his career. In the entertainment industry, actress Hannelore Holz gained fame for her performances in a variety of German films and television shows. Additionally, musician Michael Holz is recognized for his talents as a composer and producer within the electronic music genre. Overall, the Holz surname is associated with a diverse range of accomplished individuals in various fields of art, entertainment, and sports.

Genealogical research on the last name Holz

The surname Holz is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "holz", meaning "wood". The name was likely originally bestowed upon someone who lived near or worked with wood. The earliest recorded instance of the Holz surname dates back to the 13th century in the region of Saxony, Germany. Over the centuries, the Holz family spread throughout Germany and eventually migrated to other regions such as Austria, Switzerland, and the United States. Variations of the surname include Holzer, Holtz, and Holst. Genealogical research on the Holz family may reveal connections to prominent figures in history, as well as insights into the occupations and lifestyles of past generations. Today, descendants of the Holz family can be found in various countries around the world, continuing to honor their heritage and ancestral roots.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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

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