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Last Name Peterka

What is the origin of the last name Peterka?

The surname Peterka is of Czech or Slovak origin, derived from the personal name "Peter" which means "rock" or "stone" in Greek. It is a common surname in Czech Republic and Slovakia, and is often found among people of Czech or Slovak descent. The suffix "-ka" is a common ending in surnames in these regions, typically used to denote a connection to a person, place, or occupation. Overall, Peterka likely means "son of Peter" or "descendant of Peter".

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Peterka

The meaning and origin of the last name Peterka

The surname Peterka is of Czech origin, derived from the given name "Petr," which is the Czech form of the name Peter. The suffix "-ka" is a diminutive commonly added to names in Czech to indicate either familiarity or smallness. Therefore, the surname Peterka likely originated as a patronymic surname, meaning "son of Peter" or "little Peter." The name Peter itself comes from the Greek name Petros, meaning "rock" or "stone," and is a common name in Christian tradition, being the name of one of Jesus' apostles. As a surname, Peterka would have been given to descendants of individuals named Petr or Peter, indicating their lineage. Overall, the surname Peterka carries with it a sense of familial connection and tradition, linking individuals to their ancestors and the legacy of the name Peter.

Geographical distribution of the last name Peterka

The surname Peterka is primarily found in the Czech Republic, with a significant presence in the region of Moravia. It is a relatively common surname in Slovenia as well, particularly in the Prekmurje region near the Hungarian border. Additionally, there are smaller populations of individuals with the last name Peterka in neighboring countries such as Germany, Austria, and Slovakia. Outside of Europe, the name can also be found in the United States, where it is likely the result of immigration from Central Europe. Overall, the geographical distribution of the surname Peterka reflects its roots in Czech and Slovenian history, with concentrations in areas where these cultures have a strong influence.

Variants and spellings of the last name Peterka

The last name Peterka has several variations and spellings, including Petereka, Peterca, Peterkova, Petrikova, Petrik, Petrak, and Pietrzak. These variations may reflect different regional origins or dialects within the Czech Republic or Slovakia, where the name is common. They may also be the result of Anglicization or other language adaptations when the name was brought to English-speaking countries. The surname Peterka is of Czech or Slovak origin and is believed to be derived from the personal name Peter, meaning "rock" or "stone" in Greek. It is a popular surname in these countries and may have different prefixes or suffixes depending on the specific family lineage or village of origin. Overall, the variations and spellings of the last name Peterka are reflective of the diverse cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped the surname over time.

Famous people with the last name Peterka

There are not many famous individuals with the last name Peterka as it is a relatively uncommon surname. However, one notable figure with this surname is Jakub Peterka, a talented ice hockey player from the Czech Republic. Jakub Peterka has made a name for himself as a skilled forward, playing for various teams in the Czech Extraliga and internationally representing his country in tournaments such as the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. Despite the limited number of well-known individuals with the last name Peterka, Jakub's success in the world of ice hockey has brought recognition to the name and made him a respected figure in the sport.

Genealogical research on the last name Peterka

The surname Peterka is of Czech origin, derived from the given name "Petr," which means "rock" in Czech. The name is commonly found in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with some branches of the family having emigrated to the United States and other countries. Genealogical research on the Peterka name reveals a long history of the family, with records showing the name dating back to the 15th century in some regions. The family may have been involved in various occupations such as farming, trades, or even nobility, depending on the specific branch of the family. Through further research, it is possible to uncover more about the origins, migration patterns, and notable members of the Peterka family tree, providing insight into the rich history and heritage of this surname.

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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