Last Name Wilders

The surname Wilders is of Dutch origin. It is derived from the Middle Dutch word "wild(er)," which means a "wild animal" or "wild person." This could have referred to someone who lived in a wild or untamed area, or someone who had wild characteristics or a wild personality. The surname could have been given to someone who worked as a hunter, or someone who lived near a forest or wilderness. Over time, the surname Wilders would have been passed down from generation to generation, eventually becoming a family name.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Wilders

The meaning and origin of the last name Wilders

The surname Wilders is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "wilde," meaning wild, untamed, or undomesticated. It is an occupational surname, signifying that the original bearer was associated with wild, uncultivated areas or was involved in activities related to hunting or living in untamed lands. The suffix "-ers" indicates that the name is derived from an occupation or trade, in this case, someone who worked or lived in the wild. Over time, the surname Wilders could have been bestowed upon individuals living near dense forests, untamed countryside, or wild animal habitats. It may have also been given to those associated with the management or preservation of these wild areas. Variations of the surname include Wilder, Wilderspin, and Wilderson. The name has spread and evolved through immigration, as individuals with this surname moved to different countries, leading to its presence in various regions around the world today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Wilders

The last name Wilders is primarily found in the Netherlands and Belgium, indicating a strong connection to Dutch and Flemish ancestry. In the Netherlands, the highest concentration of individuals with this surname can be found in the southern region of Limburg, particularly in cities like Maastricht and Heerlen. The name is also prevalent in other parts of the Netherlands, including Amsterdam and The Hague, although to a lesser extent. In Belgium, Wilders is most commonly found in the Flemish region, especially in cities like Antwerp and Ghent. However, it is important to note that the exact geographical distribution of the Wilders surname might have been influenced by migration patterns, emigration, and historical events. Therefore, it is possible to encounter individuals with this last name in other parts of the world due to international migration or familial dispersal.

Variants and spellings of the last name Wilders

The surname Wilders has a few variations and potential spellings, with each variation representing individuals from different backgrounds and regions. This name can be seen as Wilder, Wildar, or Wylder. These variations are common, as surnames can often undergo changes due to regional accents, dialects, and the passage of time. For instance, an individual with the last name Wilders might choose to drop the "s" in their surname for simplicity or personal preference. Additionally, the spelling Wylder might be used by a family with historical ties to the Netherlands or Scandinavia, where variations in surname spellings are more prevalent. Regardless of the spelling, the name evokes a sense of adventure, wilderness, or untamed landscapes—an association that might have originated with individuals who lived close to or derived their livelihoods from the wild and untamed terrains of the past.

Famous people with the last name Wilders

One of the most famous people with the last name Wilders is Geert Wilders, a Dutch politician known for his controversial views on immigration and Islam. He is the founder and leader of the right-wing Party for Freedom in the Netherlands and has been a Member of Parliament since 1998. Wilders is a vocal critic of multiculturalism and the European Union, and has called for stricter controls on immigration and the protection of Dutch cultural values. He has faced backlash for his rhetoric, including accusations of inciting hate speech and discrimination. Despite this, Wilders continues to be a prominent figure in Dutch politics and has amassed a significant following among those who share his nationalist and anti-immigrant beliefs.

Genealogical research on the last name Wilders

The genealogical research on the last name Wilders reveals a rich history. The Wilders family is said to have originated in the Netherlands. The earliest known ancestors can be traced back to the 17th century, residing in various regions of the country such as Gelderland and Drenthe. Over time, some members of the Wilders family migrated to other parts of Europe, including Germany, France, and England. In the late 19th century, a branch of the family made their way to the United States, settling primarily in the Midwest. The Wilders family has a strong presence in areas such as Iowa and Kansas, where they have contributed to local communities in various fields. Through meticulous research and collaboration with other Wilders descendants, a comprehensive family tree has been compiled, highlighting the diverse paths taken by different branches of the Wilders family throughout history. This genealogical research not only provides an understanding of the family's past but also serves as a testament to their enduring legacy.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "wilders"
• 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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