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Last Name Ozimek

What is the origin of the last name Ozimek?

The surname Ozimek is of Polish origin. It derives from the male given name Osiąg, which means "to achieve" or "to gain". Over time, this name was often altered and abbreviated in various ways to create surnames like Ozimek, Ozimecki, Osiemek, etc. The word 'Ozimek' specifically is a diminutive form of the surname Osiemek, which comes from the given name Osiąg.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ozimek

The meaning and origin of the last name Ozimek

The surname Ozimek is of Polish origin, stemming primarily from regions such as Silesia, Lesser Poland, and Podkarpackie. Its etymology can be traced back to the medieval period, where it is believed to have derived from the topographical name 'Osiąg' or a personal name 'Osięga'. The name 'Osiąg' is associated with wooded areas or a clearing in a forest, while 'Osięga' was a Slavic male given name derived from the word for 'wild boar', which could have symbolized strength and bravery. Over time, variations of the surname emerged due to spelling differences, migration, and local dialects, with Ozimek being one such variant. The family name has been recorded in historical documents dating back to the late Middle Ages, providing a glimpse into its rich history and heritage within Polish culture.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ozimek

The last name Ozimek is predominantly of Polish origin and its geographical distribution largely reflects the historical borders of Poland. According to data from FamilyEducation, it is most common in the Silesian region of southern Poland, particularly in cities such as Katowice, Chorzów, and Bytom. The name also appears with some frequency in other parts of Poland, including the Mazovia region (Mazowieckie) and Lesser Poland (Małopolska). Outside of Poland, individuals bearing the surname Ozimek can be found in countries with large Polish diaspora populations, such as the United States, Canada, Germany, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ozimek

The surname Ozimek has several variants and spellings due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variations include: Ožimek, Ożynek, Oziměk, Ozyniec, Ozimecki, and Ozimecz. These variations originate from Poland, where the name is most prevalent, but it can also be found among Polish diaspora communities in other countries. The name Ozimek is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Osiem (meaning "eight" in Old Polish), indicating that an ancestor was born eighth in his family. Despite these variations, all forms of the surname Ozimek share common roots in Slavic linguistics and Polish history.

Famous people with the last name Ozimek

Notable individuals with the surname Ozimek include:

1. Jacek Ozmek (born 1962), a Polish professional footballer who played as a defender and currently serves as the manager of the Polish women's national team. He represented Poland in 48 international matches during his playing career.

2. Tomasz Ozimek (born 1979), a Polish former long jumper, who competed at the 2000 Summer Olympics, 2004 Summer Olympics and 2008 Summer Olympics. He set the Polish national record in the long jump with his performance of 8.53 meters in 2001.

3. Krzysztof Ozimek (born 1960), a Polish former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He earned 41 caps for the Poland national team, including participation in UEFA Euro 1988 and the 1990 FIFA World Cup.

4. Stanisław Ozimek (1882-1963), a Polish politician who served as the mayor of Poznań between 1938 and 1945. He was instrumental in rebuilding the city after World War II, serving as the vice-president of the Polish provisional government during the war.

Genealogical research on the last name Ozimek

The surname Ozimek originates from Poland and is primarily found in the regions of Lesser Poland, Masovia, and Silesia. The name is believed to have derived from the occupational term "ozimec," meaning potter or clay-worker, reflecting the early profession of its bearers. One notable figure with this surname was Antoni Piotrowski Ozimek, a Polish general who played a significant role in the Polish insurrection against Russia during the late 19th century. Records suggest that the name has been present in Poland since at least the 16th century and may have multiple branches, with some families emigrating to other countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Genealogical research on the Ozimek family can be traced through church records, census data, and immigration lists in these regions.

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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