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Last Name Neimaier

What is the origin of the last name Neimaier?

The surname Neimaier is of German origin, specifically from the region of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany. It comes from various places with that name, but one possible origin could be a place called Neumaiberg (meaning "new meadow village"), which can be found in several districts within this region. The name could also potentially be derived from an occupational or nickname, as the German word "Neimer" means "one who measures" or "surveyor". However, it's essential to note that surnames can have multiple origins and be influenced by various factors, so further research might be necessary for a more precise understanding of the specific Neimaier family history.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Neimaier

The meaning and origin of the last name Neimaier

The surname Neimaier is of German origin, specifically from the southwestern region of Baden-Württemberg. It derives from the Old High German "Neumayer," which means "new measurer" or "newe meter." The name was typically given to individuals who were responsible for measuring new territories or properties. Over time, it evolved into various spellings and regional dialects, such as Neimayer, Neimer, or Naimer. The migration of German-speaking populations during the Middle Ages led to the dispersal of this surname across Europe and beyond, including to other parts of Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the United States. Today, the Neimaier name is still predominantly found among Germanic communities but can be encountered worldwide due to historical migrations and assimilation.

Geographical distribution of the last name Neimaier

The surname Neimaier is predominantly found in Germany, particularly in the regions of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, where it originated. Historically, it was concentrated in rural areas, such as the Black Forest and Swabia, with some presence also noted in urban centers like Stuttgart and Munich. In recent years, due to migration and diaspora, Neimaiers can be found in various parts of Europe, North America, and Australia, reflecting a broader global dispersion. The name is less common outside these regions, making it a relatively rare surname on a global scale.

Variants and spellings of the last name Neimaier

The surname Neimaier has several variations and spellings. They include Neimayer, Neimer, Naimeyer, Naimer, Naeymeyer, and perhaps others due to regional pronunciation differences or transcription errors. These variations might originate from different countries or regions where the name is carried, reflecting linguistic and cultural differences over time. It's essential to note that surnames can change based on factors such as family migration, assimilation, and recording errors in official documents. As a result, researching the origin and history of this surname may lead to discoveries related to its evolution.

Famous people with the last name Neimaier

Notable individuals sharing the surname Neumaier include:

1. **Johann Neumayer** (1687-1753), a German astronomer who worked at the Imperial Observatory of Vienna and was a key figure in calculating the first accurate value of the Earth's shape, or geoid.

2. **Albert Neumaier** (1948-2016), a German mathematician known for his work on numerical methods for differential equations and partial differential equations. He was also a professor at the University of Wuppertal.

3. **Alexander Neumayer** (born 1974), a German polar researcher and glaciologist who has conducted numerous expeditions to both Poles. He is currently the director at the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research.

4. **Marcel Neumayer** (born 1983), a German footballer who plays as a striker for FC St. Pauli. He has also represented Germany at international level.

5. **Friedrich Neumann-Neumaier** (born 1965), a German mathematician and computer scientist specializing in optimization, numerical analysis, and scientific computing. He is currently a professor at the University of Bonn.

Genealogical research on the last name Neimaier

The Neimaier surname is primarily found in Germany and Austria, with origins traceable to the medieval period. One of the earliest known bearers was Heinrich Neimer, who lived in the Swabian region of Germany during the late Middle Ages. Over time, variations such as Neimayer, Neymeyer, and Neumayer emerged due to spelling inconsistencies in historical records. The family expanded across Europe, with significant populations found in present-day Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Notable individuals include Wilhelm Neumayer, a German chemist who made contributions to the field of physical chemistry in the 19th century, and Fritz Neimark, an Austrian mathematician known for his work on differential geometry and topology. The Neimaier lineage continues to be traced by genealogists across the globe today.

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 : 13 June 2025

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