Last Name Klapper

The surname Klapper is of German origin and is derived from a topographical name for someone who lived near a clapper bridge, a type of prehistoric structure consisting of two upright stones with a horizontal stone placed across them to form an arch. This name is also found in Jewish families, where it was often a metonymic occupational name for a maker or repairer of such bridges. An alternative origin suggests that the name may be a nickname for someone who had a loud or boisterous manner, from Middle Low German klapper meaning "clapper" or "rattle."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Klapper

The meaning and origin of the last name Klapper

The surname Klapper is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German "klapfen," meaning "to clap" or "strike." It likely was an occupational name for a drummer or a metonymic occupation for a smith or carpenter who used hammers extensively in their work. Alternatively, it could have been a topographic name for someone living near a noisy place, such as a windmill or a rapid stream. Over time, various spellings of the surname have emerged, including Klappert, Clapper, and Klapp, reflecting the regional differences in pronunciation and transcription practices.

Geographical distribution of the last name Klapper

The surname Klapper has a significant presence primarily in Germany and its neighboring regions, such as Austria and Switzerland, due to its Germanic origins. Historically, it is believed to have originated from the Middle Ages when it was a nickname derived from the Old High German word "klappe," meaning a lid or trapdoor, possibly indicating a craftsman who made such items. The name has also been found in France and Belgium due to migration and historical influences. In the United States, Klapper is among the more common German surnames, with highest concentrations in states like Pennsylvania, New York, and Texas, owing to the wave of 19th-century immigration from Germany. Additionally, smaller populations can be found in other countries, such as Canada, Australia, and South Africa, reflecting global migration patterns over centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Klapper

The surname Klapper has several variants and spellings due to transcription errors over time and differences in regional dialects. Some common variations include Clapper, Clappier, Klappner, Klafter, Klaffer, Klaffner, Clafer, and Klaver. These variations can be found among people of diverse ethnicities, but are most commonly associated with individuals of German, Dutch, or Jewish descent. The name is believed to originate from a Middle High German word "klapper," meaning "bell" or "clapper," which could have been used as an occupational surname for a bellmaker or ringer.

Famous people with the last name Klapper

Notable individuals with the surname Klapper include:

1. Harold C. Klapper (1923-1997), an American electrical engineer who made contributions to radar technology and served as the director of research at Hughes Aircraft Company from 1964 to 1985.

2. Jack Klugman (1922-2012), an American actor best known for his roles in the television series "The Odd Couple" and "Quincy, M.E." He won five Emmy Awards during his career.

3. Arthur L. Klapper (1907-1985), an American attorney who served as a judge on the New York Court of Appeals from 1965 to 1972. He was the first Jewish judge to serve on that court.

4. Michael D. Klaper (born 1953), an American medical doctor and author who advocates for plant-based nutrition and holistic health practices. He has written several books on these topics.

5. Elise Klapper (born 1987), a South African actress known for her roles in television series such as "Isidingo" and "The Book of Negroes." She has also worked in theater and on the radio.

Genealogical research on the last name Klapper

The Klapper surname is of German origin and is believed to have been derived from the Middle High German word "klappe," meaning a trap or snare. The earliest known record of the Klapper family can be traced back to the 14th century in Germany, with the family residing mainly in the regions of Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate. The family migrated to various parts of Europe, including Poland, Hungary, Austria, and Russia, during the 18th and 19th centuries.

In the United States, the Klapper name appeared in significant numbers due to immigration from Germany, Eastern Europe, and Russia between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The majority of American Klappers settled in urban areas, particularly New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Boston. Today, the Klapper family is found worldwide, with notable concentrations in the United States, Israel, Canada, and Germany. Notable individuals with the surname Klapper include Dr. Ernst Otto Klapper, a German-born chemist who made significant contributions to the field of polymer science, and Leonard Klapper, an American journalist and author known for his work on civil rights and labor issues.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Klapper"
• 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 : 27 July 2025

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