Last Name Rohde

The last name "Rohde" has German origins. It is derived from the German word "rôden," meaning "to clear land," or "to make way." In Germany, the name was often given to people who worked as land clearers or land developers. Over time, variations of the name such as Rode, Rodek, Roeder, and Rohder also developed. Today, the surname Rohde is still common in Germany, as well as in other countries with German heritage.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Rohde

The meaning and origin of the last name Rohde

The surname Rohde has German origins and is derived from the Middle High German word "rot," meaning "red." It was primarily used as a nickname for someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion. The name might also be linked to a geographical meaning, referring to someone who lived near a place with red soil or distinctive red features. Over time, the spelling of the surname may have changed and evolved, resulting in variations such as Rode, Rod, and Rudd. The surname Rohde can be found worldwide, but it is most commonly found in Germany, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands, reflecting its Germanic roots. Today, individuals with the surname Rohde are likely descendants of ancestral bearers who were known for their reddish features or connections to places with red attributes.

Geographical distribution of the last name Rohde

The last name Rohde has a widespread geographical distribution across several regions of the world. In Germany, it is a relatively common surname, particularly in the northern part of the country, where it originated. Many individuals with the surname can also be found in countries with historical ties to Germany, such as the United States, Canada, and Brazil, due to migration patterns throughout history. In the United States, clusters of individuals with the last name Rohde can be found in states such as Wisconsin, California, and Illinois. Other countries where the surname is present include South Africa, Australia, and Denmark. Additionally, due to globalization and increased mobility, individuals with the last name Rohde can now be found in various other parts of the world, contributing to the diverse geographical distribution of this surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Rohde

The last name Rohde, originating from Germany, can have various spellings and variations. One common variation is "Rode," where the letter 'h' is dropped. Another potential variation is "Rhode," where the letter 'd' is replaced with a 'th' sound, similar to the state Rhode Island. Additionally, the name may be spelled as "Roede" or "Röde," in accordance with the German umlaut in which the letter 'o' has two dots above it. Some individuals may opt for a simplified spelling like "Road" or "Roed" in order to conform to English phonetics. As with many surnames, regional accents, migrations, and the passage of time have given rise to even more variations, such as "Rohrd," "Rehde," or "Roht." Ultimately, these variations and spellings reflect the dynamic nature of names and how they adapt across different cultures and languages.

Famous people with the last name Rohde

One famous individual with the last name Rohde is Joe Rohde, famed Imagineer and creative force behind many iconic Disney theme park attractions. Having joined the Walt Disney Company in 1980, Rohde contributed to the design and development of numerous beloved projects, including Disney's Animal Kingdom in Florida. He led the team responsible for the meticulous creation of Pandora – The World of Avatar, captivating visitors with its immersive experience. With his expertise in cultural storytelling and attention to detail, Rohde has left an enduring mark on Disney parks worldwide. Another notable figure is Erwin Rohde, a prominent German classical scholar and philosopher. Born in 1845, his works on Greek mythology and religious beliefs significantly influenced the field. Rohde's notable contributions to the understanding of ancient Greek culture continue to be revered in academic circles.

Genealogical research on the last name Rohde

The surname Rohde has German origins and is derived from the Old High German word "rod" which means "clearing" or "pasture." The name Rohde first appeared in northern Germany, particularly in the regions of Mecklenburg and Holstein. Over time, various branches of the Rohde family emerged, spreading across different parts of Germany, as well as other countries. Records indicate that individuals with the Rohde surname migrated to regions such as the United States, Brazil, and Australia during the 19th and 20th centuries. In some cases, the name was anglicized to "Rhodes" or "Rood." Notable individuals with the Rohde surname include Friedrich Carl August Rohde, a prominent German botanist, and Doug Rohde, an American film and television producer. Genealogical research suggests that the Rohde family has a rich history spanning several generations and continues to thrive in various parts of the world.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Rohde"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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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