Last Name Winterstein

The surname "Winterstein" is of German origin. It translates to "Stone of Winter" in English. It is a compound name, formed by joining two Old High German words: "wintar," meaning winter, and "stein," meaning stone. This name may have been given to someone who lived near a notable rock formation that was particularly visible during the winter months or to someone who was particularly hardy and enduring, like a sturdy winter stone. As with many surnames, its origins can be traced back to Medieval Europe, where individuals were often identified by their occupation, place of origin, or distinctive physical features.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Winterstein

The meaning and origin of the last name Winterstein

The surname Winterstein is of German origin, derived from the Old High German elements "winter" (meaning winter) and " Stein" (meaning stone). It likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near a rocky outcrop or formation that was particularly evident during winter. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational name for someone who worked with stone in the winter months when other agricultural work was less demanding. The name may have also been used metaphorically to denote a steadfast or sturdy individual. The first recorded spelling of Winterstein can be traced back to the late Middle Ages, in the region of Swabia, Germany, indicating its Germanic roots. Throughout history, the name has spread globally due to various migrations and natural population movements, resulting in variant spellings such as Wintersteen, Wintersteyn, Wintersteine, and others.

Geographical distribution of the last name Winterstein

The surname Winterstein is primarily distributed across Central Europe, particularly in Germany and Austria, reflecting its Germanic origins. It is most concentrated in regions such as Bavaria, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany, and Vorarlberg, Tyrol, Salzburg, and Upper Austria in Austria. Small populations of individuals with the last name Winterstein can also be found in other German-speaking countries like Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Additionally, it has been introduced to various parts of the world due to emigration, with significant numbers in North America (USA and Canada), South America (Brazil), Australia, and New Zealand. The distribution of the name suggests a historical connection to the cultural and linguistic region encompassing modern-day Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Variants and spellings of the last name Winterstein

The surname Winterstein has various spelling and pronunciation variations, which may include: Winternsteen, Wintersteene, Winterstien, Wintersteyn, Wintersteine, Wintersteyns, Wintersteens, Wintersteynes, and Wintersteins. These variations can arise due to differences in regional dialects, transcription errors, or personal preference. The name is of German origin, derived from the words "winter" meaning winter and "stein" meaning stone, symbolizing someone associated with a stony or rocky area during the winter season.

Famous people with the last name Winterstein

Notable individuals sharing the surname Winterstein include:

1. Karl Winterstein (1867-1934): An American jurist and educator, he served as the United States Solicitor General from 1921 to 1922 under President Warren G. Harding. He was also a professor of law at Cornell University.

2. Max Winterstein (1878-1965): A German-born American mathematician, he made significant contributions to the field of differential geometry and algebraic topology. He worked as a professor at Brown University and Princeton University.

3. Erwin Winterstein (1902-1944): A German resistance fighter during World War II, he was part of the Kreisau Circle, a group of German military officers and intellectuals who conspired against Adolf Hitler. He was executed by the Gestapo in 1944 for his actions.

4. David Winterstein (born 1952): An American actor and voice actor, he has had recurring roles in TV shows like "The West Wing" and "Mad Men." His voiceover work includes characters in video games such as "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" and "Mass Effect."

These individuals have left their marks in various fields, from law and education to mathematics, resistance against tyranny, and entertainment.

Genealogical research on the last name Winterstein

The surname Winterstein is of German origin, derived from the Old High German word "wintari," meaning "white stone" or "chalky rock." It emerged as a topographic name for someone who lived by such a landform or as an occupational name for a stonemason.

The earliest records of the Winterstein family date back to the 16th century in Germany, with documented instances in regions like Silesia and Swabia. Notable figures bearing this surname include Johann Georg Winterstein, a physician who served as court physician to the Elector of Brandenburg in the early 18th century, and Gottlieb Friedrich August Winterstein, a prominent lawyer and politician from Breslau in the late 19th century.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, many Wintersteins emigrated to the United States, particularly to Pennsylvania and Ohio, as well as other parts of North America and Europe. Today, the Winterstein family can be found across the globe, maintaining a rich cultural heritage while adapting to diverse environments.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Winterstein"
• 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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