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Last Name Kob

What is the origin of the last name Kob?

The last name "Kob" is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "kobbe," meaning "male swan" or "cob." It is believed to have originally been a nickname given to someone who bore a resemblance to a swan or who exhibited swan-like characteristics. Over time, this nickname evolved into a hereditary surname and is still found among German-speaking populations today.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Kob

The meaning and origin of the last name Kob

The surname "Kob" is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "kobbe," meaning "gnome" or "goblin." It is believed to have been given as a nickname to someone who was small in stature or mischievous in nature. The surname may also have originated from the Slavic word "kob," meaning "mare," suggesting a connection to horses or horse breeding. Alternatively, it could have developed as a topographic name for someone who lived near a cob, a type of fortification or enclosure. Over time, the surname "Kob" has spread beyond its German origins, with variations appearing in Eastern European countries such as Poland and Ukraine. Today, individuals with the surname "Kob" can be found all over the world, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kob

The last name Kob is primarily found in Germany, particularly in the northwestern region of the country. It is most commonly seen in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia, where a significant number of individuals with the surname reside. In addition to Germany, the last name Kob can also be found in Austria, Switzerland, and other German-speaking regions of Europe. While the exact origins of the surname are unclear, it is believed to have originated as a locational name, derived from places with names containing the element "kob" or "kopf." The distribution of the last name Kob may also be influenced by historical migrations and population movements within Europe, resulting in pockets of individuals with this surname in various countries across the continent.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kob

Variations and spellings of the last name Kob include Kobb, Kobbe, Kobbly, Kobson, Koby, Cub, Kobbin, Kobbins, Kobbie, and Kobbs. These variations may have originated from different regions or countries where the surname Kob is common. The variations reflect the different ways the name has been pronounced or spelled over time, whether due to accents, dialects, or clerical errors. The diversity of spellings highlights the fluidity and evolution of surnames throughout history. Despite the different variations, individuals with any of these spellings likely share a common ancestry and heritage. It is important for those researching their genealogy or ancestry to be aware of the various forms of the surname Kob in order to accurately trace their family history.

Famous people with the last name Kob

One famous person with the last name Kob is Emma Kob. She is a German-American actress known for her work in films such as "Requiem for a Dream" and "The Lives of Others." Another notable figure with the last name Kob is Rudi Kobza, an Austrian advertising executive and entrepreneur. He is the founder of the advertising agency Demner, Merlicek & Bergmann and is considered a key figure in the Austrian advertising industry. Additionally, composer and pianist Eugene Kob has made a name for himself in the world of classical music. His compositions have been performed by orchestras around the world, and he is known for his virtuosic piano performances. These individuals with the last name Kob have each made significant contributions in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Kob

The surname Kob is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "kobbe," meaning "goblin" or "gnome." It is believed to have been used as a nickname for someone who was mischievous or tricky. The Kob surname is predominantly found in Germany, particularly in the regions of North Rhine-Westphalia and Hesse. Genealogical research on the surname Kob indicates that individuals bearing this name have been traced back to the early 15th century in Germany, with records showing Kob families residing in various towns and villages throughout the country. Over the centuries, the Kob surname may have spread to other parts of Europe and beyond through migration and emigration. Today, individuals with the last name Kob can be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, among others.

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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