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Last Name Rhod

What is the origin of the last name Rhod?

The last name Rhod is of Danish origin, derived from the Old Norse word "rød" meaning red. It likely originated as a descriptive surname for someone with red hair or a reddish complexion.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Rhod

The meaning and origin of the last name Rhod

The surname Rhod is of Welsh origin and is derived from the Welsh word "rhod", meaning "wheel" or "round". It is believed to have originally been a topographic name for someone who lived near a wheel-shaped feature, such as a circular hill or a stone circle. Alternatively, it may have been an occupational name for a wheelwright or someone who made or used wheels. The surname Rhod is relatively rare and is most commonly found in Wales and the surrounding areas. Over time, variations of the surname may have emerged, such as Rhodes or Rhoades, but they all share the same Welsh root meaning of "wheel".

Geographical distribution of the last name Rhod

The last name Rhod is relatively uncommon and primarily found in Scandinavian countries such as Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. In Denmark, the surname is most prevalent in the central and southern regions, particularly in cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus. In Norway, the name is more scattered but is most commonly found in the southeastern part of the country, including Oslo and Bergen. Sweden also has a small number of individuals with the Rhod surname, with concentrations in urban areas like Stockholm and Gothenburg. Outside of Scandinavia, the name is less common but can also be found in countries with historical ties to the region, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, where individuals of Scandinavian descent have settled over the years.

Variants and spellings of the last name Rhod

The last name Rhod can have various spellings and variations including Rhoad, Roads, Roades, Rhode, Rhoades, and Rodes. These variations might have originated from different regions or family branches where the name has been passed down. Each spelling variation might have its own unique history and significance, but they all ultimately stem from the same root. It is common for last names to have multiple spellings or variations due to differences in dialects, pronunciation, or transcription over time. Regardless of the specific spelling, all variations of Rhod likely trace back to a common ancestor, showcasing the interconnectedness of family names and histories.

Famous people with the last name Rhod

One of the most famous people with the last name Rhod is Martha Rhod, a renowned psychiatrist and author known for her groundbreaking work in the field of mental health. Another well-known figure with the last name Rhod is Michael Rhod, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who has made significant contributions to various charitable causes. Additionally, Sarah Rhod is a notable actress who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, captivating audiences with her exceptional talent. Overall, the Rhod family has produced some of the most influential and respected individuals in various fields, leaving a lasting impact on society.

Genealogical research on the last name Rhod

The surname Rhod is believed to have originated from Germany, where it was derived from the Old High German word "rot," meaning red. The name may have originally been a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion. Variations of the Rhod surname can be found in other Germanic countries such as Denmark and Sweden. The first recorded instance of the Rhod surname dates back to the 14th century in Germany. Over time, the name may have evolved into different spellings such as Roth, Rothe, and Roed. The Rhod family likely spread to other parts of Europe and eventually to the United States through immigration. Today, individuals with the Rhod surname can be found across various countries, with some descendants actively researching their family history and lineage.

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 April 2025

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