Last Name Weider

The surname "Weider" is of Germanic origin. It is derived from a German occupational name for a wain-driver, that is, someone who drove a wain (a type of two-wheeled cart) or a wagon. This occupation was important in the Middle Ages as it involved transporting goods and people over long distances. The surname can also be found spelled as "Weidar" or "Weiderer", with variations depending on the region. In English, the name can be translated as 'cart-driver' or 'wagon-driver'.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Weider

The meaning and origin of the last name Weider

The surname Weider originates from Germany, specifically Bavaria and Swabia regions. It is an occupational name for a weaver or a manufacturer of textiles, derived from the Old High German word "weitari" which means 'weaver'. Over time, the spelling has evolved with variations such as Weyders, Wieders, and Waiders being found in different regions. The name was also common among those who specialized in weaving other materials like baskets or cages, hence the alternative meanings of the name could be a 'maker of wickerwork' or 'keeper of birds'. As German settlers migrated to other parts of Europe and eventually to North America during the Middle Ages and beyond, variations of the surname Weider also emerged in these regions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Weider

The surname Weider has a significant presence in Switzerland, particularly in the German-speaking cantons such as Aargau, Zürich, and Basel-Landschaft. It also appears frequently in the neighboring Liechtenstein. Beyond Switzerland, Weiders can be found in other German-speaking countries like Austria, Germany, and Liechtenstein. In North America, a notable concentration of Weiders is in the United States, specifically in California, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and New York, likely due to historical immigration patterns from Europe. Additionally, there are smaller populations of Weiders in Canada, notably in Ontario and British Columbia. The geographical distribution suggests a strong historical connection with central Europe, although it has been dispersed through global migration waves.

Variants and spellings of the last name Weider

The surname Weider has various spellings and pronunciations. Some common variants include Weidor, Wiedor, Wiethar, Weithur, and Waechter. These variations may originate from different regions or time periods, reflecting the diversity of German-speaking cultures. Another possible variant is Vieder, which could have arisen due to changes in spelling over time or regional dialects. Additionally, Weider can be translated as "repeater" or "recapitulator" in some contexts, referencing its original meaning or a notable family trait. The name is most commonly associated with the famous bodybuilding dynasty, the Weiders, whose members include Joe Weider, Ben Weider, and Serge Weider, prominent figures in the fitness industry.

Famous people with the last name Weider

Joseph Weider and Ben Weider are two notable figures associated with the Weider family name. Born in Montreal, Canada, in 1928, Joe Weider was a bodybuilding entrepreneur who co-created the famous Muscle & Fitness magazine and the Mr. Olympia competition. He also published numerous bodybuilding books and developed exercise equipment, including the Weider Gym System. Ben Weider, his brother, was a business partner in many of these ventures. In addition to sharing an interest in fitness, they were instrumental in promoting the sport of bodybuilding globally. Together, they built the International Federation of BodyBuilding & Fitness (IFBB), which continues to govern and promote the sport today. Their impact on the fitness industry has been significant, inspiring countless individuals worldwide to adopt healthier lifestyles through strength training and proper nutrition.

Genealogical research on the last name Weider

The Weider surname is of Swiss-German origin and is derived from the Middle High German "weidere" meaning "pasture land." One of the earliest known records of the Weider family dates back to the late 14th century in the region of Aargau, Switzerland. Over time, the family migrated and established roots across Europe and eventually in other parts of the world. Notable bearers of the Weider surname include Joseph Weider, a Canadian fitness pioneer who founded muscle & fitness magazine, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, whose mother's maiden name was Weider. In terms of genealogy, various branches of the Weider family can be found in countries such as Switzerland, Germany, United States, Canada, and Australia. Genealogical research on this surname is actively pursued by many due to its rich history and notable members.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Weider"
• 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 : 12 June 2025

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