Last Name Lapidus

The surname Lapidus is derived from a Jewish occupational name for a stonecutter or mason. It originated in several parts of Europe, particularly Poland and Russia, where many Lapidus families were among the artisans who worked on constructing and maintaining synagogues and other Jewish buildings. The name is ultimately derived from the Hebrew word "lapid," which means 'stone.' Over time, the spelling has evolved due to various linguistic influences.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Lapidus

The meaning and origin of the last name Lapidus

The surname Lapidus is of Jewish (Ashkenazic) origin, derived from the Hebrew word "lapid" which means "stone." Historically, it was often given to a stonemason or someone associated with stones in a figurative sense, such as a gem cutter or jeweler. Over time, the name spread beyond its Jewish origins and can now be found among various ethnicities. The surname Lapidus has notable figures including the American-Jewish journalist Israel Shenker Lapidus, who was known for his work with The New York Times and The Washington Post, and Dr. Samuel M. Lapidus, an influential American radiologist and medical researcher. In contemporary times, it remains a common surname among Jewish families worldwide, reflecting its rich historical roots.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lapidus

The surname Lapidus is predominantly of Jewish origin and has its highest concentrations in areas with significant Jewish populations. According to genealogical databases, a high frequency of the name can be found among Ashkenazi Jews, particularly those from Eastern Europe and Russia. Today, a substantial number of individuals with the last name Lapidus reside in the United States, Israel, Canada, and countries of the former Soviet Union. In the U.S., the highest concentrations of Lapiduses are in states with large Jewish populations such as New York, Florida, and California. Within these countries, major cities like New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles are home to a significant number of individuals bearing this surname. Additionally, the name can be found in other parts of the world where Jewish immigration has been prevalent, such as South America and Australia.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lapidus

The surname Lapidus has several variations and spellings in English and other languages. The most common spelling is "Lapidus," which originates from Latin and means 'of the stone.' Other variations include Lapides, Lapydus, Lapiđus (in some Slavic languages), and Lapide (Italian). These variations may occur due to differences in transcription over time, regional dialects, or assimilation into other cultures. It is also possible to find combinations such as de Lapidus, van Lapidus, or MacLapidus, where the surname is combined with a prefix or patronymic. The spelling can also vary based on the country of origin; for example, in French-speaking countries, the surname may be written as Lapiède or Lapideau. In summary, the surname Lapidus has multiple variations and spellings, reflecting its history and cultural dispersal.

Famous people with the last name Lapidus

Notable individuals with the surname Lapidus include:

1. Larry Lapidus - An American attorney and television producer who co-created the popular television series "Law & Order" and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit."
2. Mark Lapidus - A Canadian author known for his work on the "X-Files" novels, as well as being a writer for the television show "Star Trek: Enterprise."
3. Paul Lapidus - An American film and television director, producer, and writer who has worked on numerous shows including "Happy Days," "Laverne & Shirley," and "Mork & Mindy."
4. Ron Lapidus - A Canadian actor and comedian who is a member of the improvisational comedy troupe The Second City. He has also appeared in various television shows and films.
5. Simon Lapidus - A British actor, best known for his roles in "The Bill," "Casualty," and "EastEnders."

These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact in entertainment and literature.

Genealogical research on the last name Lapidus

The surname Lapidus is of Jewish origin, derived from the Hebrew word "Leved," which means "carved stone" or "engraved pillar." The Lapidus family is believed to have origins in Europe, primarily Eastern and Central Europe, with significant numbers in Poland, Russia, Lithuania, and Romania. During the Middle Ages, many Jews settled in these regions as traders, artisans, and scholars. The Lapidus family likely emerged during this period. In the 19th century, many members of the Lapidus family emigrated to the United States due to religious persecution and economic hardship. Today, the Lapidus name can be found in various countries around the world, with a significant presence in the United States, Israel, Canada, and South America. Genealogical research on the Lapidus family is often challenging due to historical events such as the Holocaust and the lack of well-preserved records from Eastern Europe.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Lapidus"
• 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 : 11 June 2025

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