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Last Name Krickhahn

What is the origin of the last name Krickhahn?

The last name Krickhahn is of German origin. It is derived from the German word "Krick" which means "crutch" or "cane", and the suffix "-hahn" which means "rooster". Therefore, the surname Krickhahn likely originated as a nickname for someone who walked with a cane or crutch or someone who was associated with or owned roosters.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Krickhahn

The meaning and origin of the last name Krickhahn

The surname Krickhahn is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "krik", meaning "cricket" or "grasshopper", and the suffix "-hahn", which means "rooster". The name was likely originally used as a nickname for someone who had characteristics similar to a cricket or grasshopper, such as agility or vivacity. Over time, this nickname may have been passed down as a hereditary surname. The use of animal or insect-related names as surnames was common in medieval times, and they often had symbolic or descriptive meanings. Today, the surname Krickhahn is still found predominantly in Germany, where it likely originated, and may be carried by descendants of those who were once associated with the qualities attributed to crickets or grasshoppers.

Geographical distribution of the last name Krickhahn

The last name Krickhahn is most commonly found in Germany, particularly in the northern regions such as Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Brandenburg. It is believed to have originated from the Middle Low German word "krike" meaning creek or stream, suggesting that the name may have originally denoted someone who lived near a small body of water. While the surname is not very common worldwide, there are also some individuals with the last name Krickhahn in the United States, particularly in states with strong German immigrant populations such as Wisconsin and Texas. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Krickhahn is relatively concentrated in Germany, with a smaller presence in the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Krickhahn

The last name Krickhahn may be spelled and varied in several ways, including Krickhan, Krickhann, Krichan, Krichen, Krichin, Krikhan, Krikhanh, and Krikhenn. These variations may have originated from different regions or families pronouncing or spelling the name differently over time. The different spellings and variations can also be attributed to errors in recording or transcribing the name in various official documents such as birth certificates, census records, and immigration papers. Despite the variations in spelling, all these versions of the last name Krickhahn likely trace back to a common ancestral origin.

Famous people with the last name Krickhahn

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Krickhahn is Frank Krickhahn, a renowned German photographer known for his captivating black and white images. His work often explores themes of urban landscapes and human emotion, earning him international acclaim and numerous awards. Another well-known Krickhahn is Karl Krickhahn, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who has made significant contributions to various charitable causes. Both Frank and Karl Krickhahn have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, showcasing the talent and dedication that runs in the Krickhahn family.

Genealogical research on the last name Krickhahn

The surname Krickhahn is of German origin and is believed to be derived from the Old High German word "krik," meaning a bend or crook, and "hahn," meaning rooster. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone with a crooked or curved beak, or perhaps it was used to describe someone who lived near a bend in a road or river. Genealogical research on the Krickhahn surname suggests that the name may have originated in the region of Mecklenburg, Germany, but has since spread to other parts of Europe and even to the United States. Some notable individuals with the Krickhahn surname include Ludwig Krickhahn, a German theologian, and Karl Krickhahn, a German chemist. The Krickhahn family crest features a rooster standing on a bend, symbolizing strength and adaptability.

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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