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Last Name Koss

What is the origin of the last name Koss?

The surname Koss is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "koz" which means goat. As a patronymic surname, it was originally used as a byname for the son of someone with that particular attribute or occupation (a goatherd). Over time, the name has been found in various regions of Germany and among German-speaking populations, including those who emigrated to other countries such as Russia, Poland, Lithuania, and the United States. The spelling variations of this surname include Koss, Kosse, Kose, and Koze.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Koss

The meaning and origin of the last name Koss

The surname Koss is of Germanic origin, derived from the Middle High German "kosze" or "koszehut," which means "cheese house." It is believed to have been originally an occupational name for someone who was involved in cheese-making, specifically one who kept the cheese in a special house. The name may also have been used as a topographical name for someone living near such a structure or as a nickname for someone who resembled something associated with cheese-making. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname have evolved, resulting in various regional variations such as Koss, Kosch, Koetz, and Kuess. The Koss name is most prevalent among populations of German descent, particularly in Central Europe, though it can also be found in other parts of the world due to migration and assimilation over centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Koss

The surname Koss is primarily distributed in Europe, particularly in Eastern and Northern regions. A significant number of individuals with this last name reside in Germany, where it originates from the Old High German word "kozza," meaning pig or swine. It's also common in Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, and other Baltic states due to historical migration patterns. Smaller populations can be found in other parts of Europe, as well as in North America, particularly the United States and Canada, where it was brought by immigrants from Germany and other European countries. In recent years, some individuals with the surname Koss have also been recorded in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, reflecting global migration trends.

Variants and spellings of the last name Koss

The surname Koss has several variations and spellings, including Kosz, Koß, Kösz, Koz, Kossa, Kócz, Kocz, Kose, Kosa, and others. These variations may be due to transliteration or regional differences in pronunciation. The name is of Germanic origin, derived from the personal name "Kotz" or "Kotsch," which means "sword." The surname Koss or its variants can be found among populations of German, Hungarian, Polish, and other Eastern European descent. It is also possible to encounter variations of this name in English-speaking countries due to migration and assimilation over centuries.

Famous people with the last name Koss

Notable individuals with the surname Koss include Harold C. Koss (1920-2016), an American physician who played a crucial role in developing the Pap test, which is used for the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Another renowned figure is Solomon R. Koss (1935-2018), a businessman who founded Koss Corporation, a company that specializes in audio products such as headphones and earbuds, making significant contributions to the consumer electronics industry. Additionally, Drew Koss (b. 1964) is a musician, primarily known as the drummer for the rock band Live. He has toured extensively with the band since 1993 and has contributed to numerous studio albums.

Genealogical research on the last name Koss

The surname Koss is of German and Jewish origins. It derives from the Middle High German "kosze" meaning "chest," referring to a wooden box or chest, indicating an occupational name for a craftsman who made such items. Another possible origin is from the Yiddish word "kosz," meaning a small cart or handcart, implying an occupational name for a cart driver or carrier. The earliest known record of the surname Koss in Germany dates back to the 13th century in regions like Thuringia and Brandenburg. In Jewish genealogy, the Koss family is believed to have originated from Poland, with records tracing them as far back as the 16th century in Silesia. Notable figures bearing the name Koss include Heinrich August Koss (1839-1875), a German geologist, and Solomon Koss Corporation founder Milton Koss (1924-2014). The distribution of the surname Koss is predominantly found in Germany, Poland, the United States, and Israel.

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 : 11 June 2025

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