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Last Name Irmas

What is the origin of the last name Irmas?

The surname Irmas does not have a clear or definitive origin that can be directly traced. Surnames like Irmas are often of Germanic or Scandinavian origin and may have been occupational names, patronymics, or topographic names, but without specific historical records, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of this particular name. It's always a good idea to consult genealogical resources for more detailed information on the history and origins of a specific surname.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Irmas

The meaning and origin of the last name Irmas

The surname Irmas is of German origin, derived from various places in Germany, such as Irma or Hermeskeil. It is believed to have been originally a place name, stemming from Old High German "irmin" meaning 'universal' or 'all-ruling', and "-salah" which denoted a settlement or estate. The surname may also be a patronymic derived from the personal name Irma, a feminine form of Hermann, meaning 'army' or 'home ruler'. Over time, as people migrated and settled in different regions, variations of this surname have emerged, including Irmas, Irms, Eirmas, Erma, and others. The spread of the name outside Germany can be attributed to migration waves, particularly during the Middle Ages and in more recent times such as the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Irmas

The surname Irmas has its origins primarily in Germany and Scandinavian countries. In Germany, it is most prevalent in the northern regions such as Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein, and Bremen. In Scandinavia, it is more common in Norway, particularly in the counties of Hedmark and Vestfold. The name also has a presence in Sweden, particularly in the Skåne region. In addition, smaller populations bearing the surname Irmas can be found in other parts of Europe such as Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands. In North America, there are communities with Irmas descendants predominantly in the United States, primarily in states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan, as well as in Canada, particularly in Ontario and British Columbia.

Variants and spellings of the last name Irmas

The surname Irmas has several variations and spellings across different regions and time periods. Some common variations include Irmahs, Irmaas, Irmaus, Irmaeus, Irmey, Irmei, Irmeyus, Irmeius, and Irmajo. These differences may arise due to spelling changes over time, cultural adaptations, or errors in transcription. In some cases, the surname may also have different origins and meanings depending on the region. For example, it could be a patronymic derived from the given name Hermann (Hermans, Hermanson) in Scandinavian countries or a variant of the German name Irma. It is essential to consider these factors when researching family history to ensure accurate results.

Famous people with the last name Irmas

Notable individuals sharing the surname Irmas include:

1. Albert Irmas (born 1938), a former American football player who played as a defensive tackle for the Green Bay Packers and New York Giants.
2. Charles Irmas (1907-1985), an American screenwriter known for his work on various sitcoms, including "The Dick Van Dyke Show" and "The Danny Thomas Hour."
3. Jeffrey Alan Irmas (born 1964), an American ice hockey goaltender who played in the National Hockey League from 1982 to 1996 for teams like the New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, and Minnesota North Stars.
4. Robert Irmas (born 1950), a real estate executive and investor who is the CEO of Colony NorthStar, a global real estate investment firm.
5. Susan S. Irmas (born 1936), an American philanthropist and president of the Irmas Charitable Foundation, which focuses on healthcare, education, and the arts in Los Angeles.

Genealogical research on the last name Irmas

The surname Irmas has roots traced back to various European countries, particularly Germany and Scandinavia. In Germany, Irmas is believed to be a variant of Erasmus, derived from the Latin Hermannus or Arminius, meaning "whole" or "universal." In Scandinavian countries, it may originate from names like Irma or Erman, which have Old Norse origins. The migration patterns suggest that families with the surname Irmas migrated to North America in the 19th century, primarily settling in the United States and Canada. Notable figures bearing this name include American politician Carl Irmas, born in 1876, and Swedish mathematician Einar Hille, born in 1903. Genealogical research continues to uncover more details about the history and distribution of the Irmas surname worldwide.

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 : 30 July 2025

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