Last Name Siebert

The surname Siebert is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "zeibert," which means "keeper of the beehive." This occupational name was given to a beekeeper or someone who worked with honey production. In the late Middle Ages, when most Europeans began using hereditary surnames, those in beekeeping trades would often take names related to their work or profession. The German word "zeibert" evolved into "Siebert" over time due to changes in pronunciation and spelling conventions.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Siebert

The meaning and origin of the last name Siebert

The surname Siebert is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German "ze berete," which means "at the protective barrier" or "near the fortification." This surname was often given to someone who lived near a protective wall or structure, such as a castle or fortified town. Over time, it has been anglicized to various forms, including Siebert, Seibert, and Ziebert. The name is common in Germany and other German-speaking regions, reflecting its historical and cultural significance within these communities. It is also found among the German diaspora in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa, where it has been passed down through generations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Siebert

The surname Siebert is predominantly found in Germany, where it originated from the Old High German word "Zeibe," meaning "birch tree," and the medieval occupation-based name "Berhto," which translates to "bright" or "famous." Historically, the Sieberts resided primarily in Westphalia, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Lower Saxony regions of Germany. The name also has a significant presence in neighboring countries such as Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Luxembourg due to historical migrations and settlements. In recent times, individuals with the surname Siebert can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa, where German immigrants settled during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Siebert name reflects a combination of its historical origins in Germany and the dispersal of German-speaking populations across the globe.

Variants and spellings of the last name Siebert

The surname Siebert has several variants and spellings across regions and time periods. Some common versions include Sieberth, Seibert, Ziebert, Zeibert, Sieber, Siabert, and Ziebart. These variations may arise due to differences in spelling conventions, regional pronunciation, or transcription errors during migration. In some cases, the name might also be hyphenated (e.g., Sieber-Thompson) when combined with another family surname. It is essential to remember that each variation and spelling represents a unique individual within the Siebert lineage, reflecting their personal history and heritage.

Famous people with the last name Siebert

Notable individuals bearing the surname Siebert include:

1. James L. Siebert (born 1934), an American biologist and limnologist who has made significant contributions to freshwater ecology and aquatic conservation.
2. Peter Siebert (born 1950), a German entrepreneur, co-founder of the software company SAP AG, one of the world's largest enterprise software companies.
3. Margaret Mead Siebert (1901-1978), an American anthropologist and author, known for her studies on childhood and family, and her work in areas such as sexuality, gender, and culture.
4. John Henry Siebert (1862-1950), an American academic administrator who served as the President of both Columbia University and Princeton University during the early 20th century.
5. Paul Siebert (1917-1993), an American linguist, anthropologist, and botanist who made significant contributions to the study of Amazonian ethnobotany and indigenous languages.

These individuals exemplify diverse fields of expertise and significant contributions across academia, business, and anthropology, showcasing the versatility and achievements of those bearing the surname Siebert.

Genealogical research on the last name Siebert

The surname Siebert originates from Germany, primarily in regions such as Westphalia and Thuringia. It is an occupational name derived from the Middle High German word "seibolt," meaning "woodcutter." Early bearers of the name include Willekinus Siebert, who lived in Westphalia during the 13th century, and Konrad Siebert, a citizen of Leipzig in the 14th century. The family's migration to other countries began with the Protestant Reformation. Some Sieberts migrated to Switzerland in the 16th century, while others settled in Scandinavia and later on, in North America during the 18th and 19th centuries. Notable descendants include Charles Henry Siebert, an American geologist and explorer, and Karl Otto Siebert, a renowned German botanist. Today, the Siebert family can be found across Europe, North America, Australia, and various other countries, with notable concentrations in Germany, the United States, and Canada.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Siebert"
• 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 June 2025

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