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Last Name Lichem

What is the origin of the last name Lichem?

The last name "Lichem" is of German origin. It is believed to be derived from the German word "Leichen," which means "corpses" or "dead bodies." It is possible that this last name may have originally been used as a nickname for someone who worked with or dealt with corpses, or it could have had a different meaning or origin that has since been lost over time.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Lichem

The meaning and origin of the last name Lichem

The surname Lichem is of German origin and is derived from the Old High German word "lichama," meaning body. It is believed to have originally been a nickname for someone with a strong or sturdy physique. The name may have also been used as a metonymic occupational name for someone who worked in the funeral industry or cared for the deceased. The surname Lichem has variations in spelling such as Lichm, Lichman, or Lichmann, indicating the geographical or familial origins of the bearers. Over time, the name has evolved and spread to other regions beyond Germany, becoming less common but still retaining its original meaning related to the body.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lichem

The last name Lichem is predominantly found in Austria, particularly in the state of Carinthia. It is a relatively rare surname, with only a small number of individuals bearing this name scattered across the country. Outside of Austria, there are very few occurrences of the surname Lichem, making it a name that is highly localized to a specific region. Despite its limited presence in other countries, the name Lichem may also be found in neighboring countries such as Germany and Slovenia due to historical connections and migration patterns. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Lichem is mainly concentrated in Austria, with little representation in other parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lichem

The last name Lichem can be spelled in various ways, with common variations including Leichem, Lichemm, Liccem, and Licham. These different spellings may have originated from transliterations of the name in different languages, or from variations in pronunciation over time. Additionally, individuals with the last name Lichem may choose to spell it differently for personal or cultural reasons. Despite these variations in spelling, the last name Lichem typically maintains its pronunciation as "LIH-kem." Families with the surname Lichem may have different preferences for how their name is spelled, leading to a wide array of possibilities when it comes to the written form of this last name.

Famous people with the last name Lichem

One of the most famous people with the last name Lichem is Peter Lichem, an Austrian actor known for his work on stage and screen. He has appeared in numerous films and television shows, showcasing his versatility and talent as an actor. Another well-known figure with the last name Lichem is Karin Lichem, a renowned artist and sculptor from Germany. Her innovative and captivating work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, earning her critical acclaim and recognition in the art world. Both Peter and Karin Lichem have made significant contributions to their respective fields, solidifying their place as some of the most noteworthy individuals with the surname Lichem.

Genealogical research on the last name Lichem

The surname Lichem is of German origin and is believed to have originated from the region of Bavaria. The name is thought to be derived from a place or geographical feature, as many German surnames often are. Through genealogical research, it has been found that the Lichem family has roots dating back to the 17th century, with a strong presence in the town of Regensburg. The family was known for their involvement in various trades and professions, including butchers, bakers, and merchants. Over the years, the Lichem family spread out across Germany and eventually emigrated to other countries such as the United States and Australia. Today, descendants of the Lichem family can be found all over the world, continuing to preserve and celebrate their heritage.

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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