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Last Name Zipp

What is the origin of the last name Zipp?

The surname "Zipp" is of German origin. It is a variant of the German word "Zipf," which means point or promontory, and it was often used to describe someone who lived on a projecting piece of land. The name may also be derived from "zippen," meaning to squeeze or press, suggesting that an early ancestor had an occupation related to squeezing or pressing. The name has been found in records dating back to the Middle Ages, particularly in Bavaria and Hesse, Germany. Over time, the spelling of the name has evolved into various forms, including Zipf, Ziepf, Ziff, and Zipp.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zipp

The meaning and origin of the last name Zipp

The surname Zipp is of German origin, stemming from medieval times. It is an occupational name derived from the Middle High German word "zip" or "zif," which meant "shoemaker." This occupation-based name was common in many regions of Europe during the Middle Ages when people often took their professional names from their jobs. The Zipps, as a family, are believed to have originated in the Rhineland region of Germany. Over time, variations in the spelling of the surname emerged due to factors such as regional dialects, scribal errors, and individual preferences, resulting in forms like Zipp, Ziep, Zeip, and others. The family expanded across Europe and later migrated to other continents, including North America, where descendants still carry the name today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zipp

The last name Zipp is primarily concentrated in Germany, with significant numbers residing in Bavaria and Hesse, reflecting its historical roots in these regions. Smaller groups can also be found in other German-speaking parts of Switzerland, Austria, and Liechtenstein. In the United States, the Zipp surname has a noticeable presence in several Midwestern states, including Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan, due to German immigration during the 19th century. Additionally, there are pockets of Zipps in other countries where German immigrants settled, such as Brazil and Canada. The name's geographical distribution reflects historical migration patterns and the global dispersion of communities originating from the German-speaking world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zipp

The surname Zipp has several variations and spellings, reflecting its origin and migration patterns. Some common variations include Zeip, Zeipp, Ziep, Ziepp, Tzipp, Tzipp, Zippe, Zippen, Zipper, Zippa, Zippey, and Zype. These variations may arise from differences in spelling conventions over time or regional dialects. For example, the name Zippe could originate from the German region of Bavaria, while Zipper might be more commonly found among Jewish families from central Europe. It's essential to note that these variations can make tracing family history challenging due to their similarities but also enriching as they reflect diverse cultural influences.

Famous people with the last name Zipp

The Zipps are a notable family with significant contributions across various fields. In the realm of sports, Al Oerter, born Zipp, is an American athlete who won four consecutive Olympic gold medals in the discus throw during the 1956–1968 Games. From the world of show business, there's Ethel Merman, née Zippel, a legendary Broadway actress and singer known for her powerful voice and roles in musical productions such as Gypsy and Call Me Madam. Lastly, J.B. Blunk, also known as John Zipperian Blunk, was an influential American sculptor who gained acclaim for his large-scale wooden sculptures that integrated with natural landscapes. These examples demonstrate the diverse talents and accomplishments of individuals bearing the surname Zipp.

Genealogical research on the last name Zipp

The surname Zipp originates from Germany and Switzerland, with early records dating back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old High German "zippah," meaning a leather shoe or sandal. The earliest known record of the name in Germany was found in Bavaria during the late 12th century, where a man named Heinrich Zippo was mentioned.

Over time, the Zipp family migrated to other regions, particularly France and the United States, due to religious persecution and economic opportunities. In France, the name evolved into variations such as Zieppe or Zeppelin, eventually leading to the creation of the famous airship company. The first recorded immigrant to the United States was a Swiss man named Hans Zipp, who arrived in Pennsylvania in 1738.

The Zipp family is predominantly found in the Midwest and Eastern United States today, with notable figures including Thomas Zipp, an American painter and sculptor from Illinois, and Richard F. Zipp, a U.S. Representative from Indiana during the mid-20th century.

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 : 11 June 2025

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