NomOrigine Background

Last Name Knab

What is the origin of the last name Knab?

The surname Knab is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "knappe," meaning a young man or squire. This surname may have been originally used as an occupational name for someone who worked as a squire or a page. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname for a young man or a person of youthful appearance. The surname Knab is fairly common in Germany and other German-speaking countries.

origin of the last name Knab

Learn more about the origin of the last name Knab

The meaning and origin of the last name Knab

The surname Knab is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "knape," which means a young man or servant. It was originally used as a nickname for a young man or a servant, and later on, became a hereditary surname passed down from generation to generation. The surname may also be of Dutch origin, with a similar meaning. Throughout history, individuals with the surname Knab have been found in various regions of Germany and the Netherlands. Today, descendants of the Knab family can be found in different parts of the world, with variations of the surname such as Knaeb, Kneb, and Knebe still in use.

Geographical distribution of the last name Knab

The last name Knab is primarily found in Germany, where it is most commonly concentrated in the regions of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Hesse. It is also prevalent in the neighboring countries of Austria and Switzerland. The surname Knab is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "knabe," meaning boy or servant. As a result, the name may have originated as an occupational surname for someone who worked as a servant or apprentice. Today, individuals with the surname Knab can be found throughout Europe and in various countries around the world, particularly in North America. Overall, the distribution of the last name Knab reflects its Germanic roots and historical connections to the regions of Bavaria and surrounding areas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Knab

Variations and spellings of the last name Knab include Knap, Knaap, Knabb, Kneb, Knabb, and Knepp. These variations may have originated from different regions or dialects where the name was used, leading to the slight changes in spelling. The name Knab is of German origin and is believed to have derived from the Middle High German word "knappe," which means a servant or an attendant. Over time, the surname Knab has evolved and developed into different forms depending on how it was written or pronounced in various contexts. Despite the variations in spelling, all these forms ultimately trace back to the same root word and carry the same meaning. Each variation adds a unique flair to the name while still retaining its original meaning and history.

Famous people with the last name Knab

One famous person with the last name Knab is composer and organist Johann Christian Knab. Born in Germany in 1754, Knab was a prolific composer of sacred music and is best known for his compositions for church organ. His work was highly regarded during his time and continues to be studied and performed by musicians and music scholars today. Another notable figure with the last name Knab is German footballer Rolf Knab. He played as a midfielder for several clubs in the Bundesliga during his career in the 1980s and 1990s, including FC Nuremberg and Eintracht Frankfurt. Knab was known for his technical skills and leadership on the field, earning him a reputation as a reliable and consistent player throughout his career.

Genealogical research on the last name Knab

The surname Knab is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "knabe," meaning "boy" or "youth." It was originally used as a nickname for someone young or youthful. The first recorded instance of the Knab surname dates back to the 13th century in Bavaria, Germany. Over the centuries, individuals bearing the Knab surname have been found throughout various regions of Germany, with notable concentrations in Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse. Some members of the Knab family immigrated to the United States in the 19th and 20th centuries, settling primarily in the Midwest. Today, individuals with the last name Knab can be found around the world, with a strong presence in Germany and the United States. Genealogical research on the Knab surname can uncover a rich history of German heritage and migration patterns.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: