Last Name Klok

The surname Klok has multiple possible origins, depending on the specific region and historical context. 1. Dutch and German origin: In these regions, the name Klok could be a metonymic occupational name for a clockmaker, derived from Middle Dutch "klok" meaning bell or clock. 2. Jewish origin: In some cases, it may have been a Jewish surname, an altered form of the Hebrew name "Kalev" (קַלְב), which means "wolf cub." This change could have occurred due to linguistic assimilation, religious persecution, or a desire for disguise. 3. Slavic origin: In Eastern Europe, especially Poland and Russia, Klok could be a variant of the Slavic name Kłok, which has various possible meanings, such as "loud" or "barking," or it may have referred to a kind of tool or instrument. 4. Scandinavian origin: In Norway, Klok is a form of the Old Norse byname Kolkr, meaning "bend-knee," possibly used as an epithet for someone with a limp or hunchback. It's important to note that these are general origins and interpretations, and individual family histories may vary significantly from these generalizations. Researching specific genealogical records can help provide more accurate information about the origin of a particular Klok family line.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Klok

The meaning and origin of the last name Klok

The surname Klok, derived from the Dutch word for "clock," is an occupational name originally given to a clockmaker or timekeeper. The name's origin can be traced back to medieval Europe, where the invention and craftsmanship of mechanical clocks were highly valued. As the demand for skilled clockmakers grew, those practicing this trade often adopted the name as a professional identifier. Over time, the surname Klok spread across various regions, particularly in the Netherlands and Belgium, and eventually found its way to other parts of Europe and the New World. Today, it remains a common surname among Dutch and Flemish communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Klok

The surname Klok is predominantly found in the Netherlands and Belgium, reflecting its Dutch origin. According to genealogical databases, it is one of the most common surnames in these countries, particularly in regions such as North Brabant, Gelderland, and Overijssel in the Netherlands, and Flemish Brabant in Belgium. The name has also been recorded in smaller numbers in other Dutch-speaking regions like Suriname and some parts of Germany, where Dutch immigration occurred historically. Occasionally, the Klok surname can be found among the diaspora in countries with significant Dutch populations, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa.

Variants and spellings of the last name Klok

The surname Klok has several variants and spellings due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some of these variations include Clock, Klokk, Klock, Kloch, and Claak. These alterations may have occurred as a result of regional dialects, migration, or errors during data entry or documentation. Additionally, it's important to note that the name may also be found in different languages, such as Dutch, Swedish, and Norwegian, where it can be spelled Klok(k) in their respective native scripts (Klok in Dutch, Klock in Swedish, and Klokk in Norwegian). These variations demonstrate the flexibility of the surname and its presence across various cultures.

Famous people with the last name Klok

Notable individuals with the surname Klok include:

1. **Frits van Ede Klok** (1934-2018), a Dutch physician and medical researcher who was instrumental in the development of the first effective oral contraceptives. He shared the 1967 John Scott Award for this work.

2. **Maarten Klok** (born 1955), a Dutch economist and academic, currently serving as the Dean of the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University.

3. **Harmen Klok** (born 1970), a Dutch footballer who played as a midfielder for various clubs in the Netherlands, including Ajax Amsterdam, PSV Eindhoven, and Feyenoord Rotterdam. He also represented the Netherlands national team.

4. **Ellen Klok** (born 1973), a Dutch journalist and TV host, best known for her work with RTL 4 and NPO Radio 2 in the Netherlands.

5. **Marcelis Klok** (born 1996), a Dutch-Moroccan footballer who plays as a centre-back for Italian club AS Roma and the Netherlands national team.

Genealogical research on the last name Klok

The Klok surname originated from the Low Countries, primarily Belgium and the Netherlands, where it is derived from the Middle Dutch word "klok" meaning bell. This surname was often given to someone who worked as a bell-ringer or lived near a church with bells.

Early variations of the name include Clock, Clocque, and Claques. One notable early bearer of the name was Hermanus Klok, a Dutch cartographer in the 17th century.

In migration, the Klok family spread to Germany, France, England, and America. In America, they primarily settled in New York, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Notable American Kloks include Henry Klok, who served as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, and George S. Klok, a prominent businessman and politician in Minnesota.

The Klok family has maintained their Dutch roots and traditions, with many still living in the Netherlands and Belgium today. The name remains relatively uncommon but is well-represented among the Dutch diaspora.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Klok"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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