Last Name Zeller

The last name "Zeller" is of German origin. It is derived from the occupational name "Zeller," which means "cellarer" or "keeper of the cellar" in German. In medieval times, a cellarer was responsible for managing the provisions and supplies in a monastery or noble household, particularly the wine cellar. The name "Zeller" would have been given to individuals who held this occupation. Over time, this occupational surname became hereditary, and individuals with the surname "Zeller" may have had ancestors who worked as cellarers or had connections to the wine industry in some way.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zeller

The meaning and origin of the last name Zeller

The surname Zeller is of German origin, derived from the occupational name "Zeller", meaning a cellarer or someone who worked in a wine cellar. The word originates from the Old High German word "zella", meaning cellar or storage room. The surname was likely initially given to individuals who were in charge of storing and distributing wine in medieval Germany. Alternatively, it could have been a locational surname for someone who resided near or worked at a winery or cellar. Variations of the Zeller surname can be found across different regions in Germany, including Bavaria, Swabia, and the Rhineland. The surname has since spread to other parts of the world through immigration, particularly to countries like the United States, Canada, and Argentina, where German immigrants settled. Today, individuals with the surname Zeller can be found globally, and many continue to carry on the traditions and history associated with their German roots.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zeller

The last name Zeller has a diverse geographical distribution, with the highest concentration found in Germany. As a German surname, it is no surprise that a significant number of individuals with the last name Zeller can be found in the country. The name is particularly prevalent in the southern region of Germany, near the border with Switzerland.

Outside of Germany, the name has also spread to other countries with significant German influence. Switzerland, Austria, and the United States are among the nations where the last name Zeller can be found. In Switzerland, the name is most commonly found in the canton of Zurich, while in Austria, it can be found in various regions, predominantly in the eastern part of the country. In the United States, individuals with the last name Zeller are scattered across the country, with notable concentrations in New York, California, and Pennsylvania. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Zeller reflects its German roots while also exhibiting a global presence due to migration and diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zeller

The last name Zeller can vary in its spelling and have different variations. One possible variation is "Zehler," which is a phonetic spelling that alters the last letter. Another possible variation is "Sellar," which is a different phonetic representation of the name. Additionally, the name may appear as "Celler," "Celer," or "Zellar," where the substitution of letters results in alternative spellings. These variations could be a result of regional or dialectal differences, or simply individual preferences when adapting the name to a new language or writing system. Despite the different spellings, these variations are essentially all phonetically similar and refer to the same surname. Ultimately, the various spellings and variations of the last name Zeller highlight the linguistic diversity and historical changes that surnames can undergo over time.

Famous people with the last name Zeller

There are two famous individuals with the last name Zeller who have made their mark in different fields. Cody Zeller is an accomplished professional basketball player. Born in 1992, he played college basketball for the Indiana Hoosiers and is currently a center for the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA. Known for his athletic ability and skill on the court, Zeller has become a respected player in the league.

On the other hand, Howard Zeller is a renowned American economist. With a Doctorate in Economics from Harvard University, Zeller has contributed significantly to the field of public finance and taxation. Throughout his career, he has held important positions, including being a professor at the University of California in Berkeley and working as an advisor to various government organizations. Zeller's academic expertise and insights have had a profound impact on economic policies, making him a respected figure in his field.

Genealogical research on the last name Zeller

The Zeller surname is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "zëller," meaning "cellar." It may have initially been a occupational surname for someone who worked in a cellar or wine cellar. The Zeller family tree traces back to the early medieval period in Germany, with records of Zellers residing primarily in regions such as Bavaria, Hesse, and Swabia.

Throughout history, the Zeller name has spread across continents, with branches of the family establishing themselves in countries like Austria, Switzerland, and the United States. In the United States, many Zellers are descendants of German immigrants who arrived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, seeking better opportunities and a new life. Notable individuals with the Zeller surname have made contributions in various fields, including art, science, and business, further enriching the legacy of the name.

Genealogical research on the Zeller family could unveil a rich tapestry of ancestors, each with their own unique stories and connections to different parts of the world. Exploring birth, marriage, and death records, census data, and historical documents can provide a fascinating journey into the origins and lineage of the Zeller name.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Zeller"
• 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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