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Last Name Sixx

What is the origin of the last name Sixx?

The surname "Sixx" is of German origin, derived from several possible sources. One possibility is that it comes from a nickname for someone who was considered quick or agile, as the word "sich" in Middle High German meant "to jump" or "to be nimble." Another potential source is from the medieval German personal name Siegfried, which means "victory peace," composed of the elements "Sieg-" (meaning victory) and "-fried" (peace). The spelling of the surname may have evolved over time due to various factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors, or individual preferences.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sixx

The meaning and origin of the last name Sixx

The surname Sixx is primarily associated with individuals of Germanic origins, though it may also be found among people of other European nationalities. The name is an occupational or nickname surname derived from the Middle High German word "zick" or "sich," meaning "a tailor." Over time, various spellings have emerged, including Siks, Sicks, Siecks, and Sixx, reflecting the linguistic variations and phonetic changes that occurred during the migration and settlement of Germanic tribes. The surname was brought to North America by early European settlers, with notable bearers being the American musician Nikki Sixx, best known as the bassist for the band Mötley Crüe.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sixx

The surname Sixx is predominantly observed in countries with Germanic origins, reflecting its possible derivation from the Old High German "Sihhha" or "Sieben," meaning seven. The highest concentrations of individuals bearing this surname can be found in Germany and the United States, particularly in regions where German immigrants settled during the 19th century, such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, and Wisconsin. Additionally, significant populations can also be found in countries that have historical ties to Germany, including Austria, Switzerland, and Canada. In recent years, the surname Sixx has spread globally due to migration and cultural exchange, with notable presence also reported in Australia, South Africa, and other English-speaking countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sixx

The surname Sixx can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common versions include Sixx, Six, Seeks, Sicks, and Seiks. These variations may arise from differences in pronunciation, regional dialects, or errors during the recording of names in historical documents. In some cases, the name may have been intentionally altered for personal reasons, such as to avoid persecution or to conform to cultural norms. Additionally, it is not uncommon for surnames to evolve over generations, with changes in spelling often occurring due to factors like immigration and assimilation. Despite these variations, the root of the name remains Sixx, derived from a Germanic given name meaning "son of Siegfried," referring to a legendary figure known as the dragon-slayer.

Famous people with the last name Sixx

Notable individuals with the surname Sixx include:

1. Nikki Sixx – An American musician, songwriter, and photographer, best known as the co-founder, bassist, and primary songwriter of the band Mötley Crüe. He has also been involved in various other musical projects, including Sixx:A.M.

2. Tommy Lee Sixx – Born Thomas Baker, he is an American musician, actor, and author, known as a founding member of Mötley Crüe. He is also recognized for his solo career, collaborative work, and reality television appearances.

3. Dustin Sixx – A former American football player who played tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL). He also had stints with several other teams in the Arena Football League (AFL).

4. Dee Sixx – An American model, actress, and former Playboy Playmate, known for her work as a ring girl in mixed martial arts events. She is the daughter of Mötley Crüe's Nikki Sixx and model Donna D'Errico.

Genealogical research on the last name Sixx

The surname Sixx originates from Germany and is believed to have evolved from various sources. One theory suggests it's a variant of the occupational name Zeigelbauer, meaning "sign painter," derived from Middle High German zih ('sign') and baue ('painter'). Another possibility is that it could be an altered form of Sichs or Sicx, which may have originated from personal names such as Siegfried or Siegbert.

The name was brought to England by German settlers during the late Middle Ages and has been recorded in various spellings including Sikx, Sicks, Sixe, Sixse, Sixx, and Siks, reflecting the spelling variations that were common during the medieval period due to the lack of standardized spelling.

Notable individuals with the surname Sixx include the American musician Nikki Sixx, bassist for Mötley Crüe, and German author Johann Baptist von Siexx, who wrote a history of the city of Mainz in 1795.

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 : 31 July 2025

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