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Last Name Reisz

What is the origin of the last name Reisz?

The surname Reisz is of Hungarian origin. It is derived from the personal name Rezső, which is a diminutive form of the name Reszó, a Hungarian variant of the name Gregory.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Reisz

The meaning and origin of the last name Reisz

The surname Reisz is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "reis," meaning 'rush,' 'reed,' or 'rush-hurdle.' The surname likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived by a rushy stream or lake. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational name for someone who harvested or worked with rushes. The use of surnames was common in Germany from the late Middle Ages onwards as a way to distinguish between individuals with the same given name, and the surname Reisz likely developed during this period. The surname may have variations in spelling, such as Reis, Reiss, or Reisz, depending on regional dialects and historical influences.

Geographical distribution of the last name Reisz

Reisz is a surname that is most commonly found in Hungary, particularly in the regions of Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen. It is also present in other European countries such as Germany, Austria, and Romania. In the United States, the surname Reisz is most prevalent in states with strong Hungarian immigrant populations, such as Ohio, California, and New York. Additionally, Reisz can be found in smaller numbers in Canada, Australia, and Argentina. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Reisz is primarily concentrated in Hungary and other European countries with historical ties to Hungary, as well as in regions with significant Hungarian diaspora communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Reisz

The last name Reisz can be spelled in various ways, including Riesz, Reiss, Reisz, Raisz, Rais, and Reys. These variations may be due to differences in pronunciation, regional dialects, or historical transliterations. While the most common spelling is Reisz, it is important to recognize that surnames can be spelled differently over time and across different countries. Regardless of the spelling, the origin of the surname Reisz is likely rooted in German or Hungarian language and culture.

Famous people with the last name Reisz

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Reisz include Robert R. Reisz, a Canadian paleontologist known for his work in the field of vertebrate paleontology, especially on the origins and early evolution of dinosaurs. Another notable figure is Eva Reisz, an award-winning Hungarian actress and director known for her contributions to the Hungarian film industry. Lastly, Peter Reisz is a prominent Hungarian photographer recognized for his captivating and innovative visual storytelling. These individuals have each made significant contributions to their respective fields and have garnered recognition for their talent and expertise.

Genealogical research on the last name Reisz

The last name Reisz is of German origin, derived from the occupational name "reisser" meaning "Knight" or "warrior". It is a surname that is believed to have originated from the German-speaking region of Europe. Genealogical research on the surname Reisz shows that individuals with this last name can be traced back to the 17th century in Germany. The name has been found in various regions of Germany, including Bavaria, Saxony, and Baden-Württemberg. Through historical records, it has been found that the Reisz family were predominantly involved in military service, agriculture, and trades such as blacksmithing and carpentry. Today, descendants of the Reisz family can be found in Germany, the United States, and other countries around the world.

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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