Surname Rohlfs - Meaning and Origin
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Rohlfs: What does the surname Rohlfs mean?
The last name Rohlfs is of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German personal name "Rolf", which was popular in many Germanic countries during the Middle Ages. The element “Rolf” is said to derive from hrod meaning 'renown' and wulf meaning 'wolf'. The combination of the two words may have been used to symbolize the strength of a leader and his ability to command respect.
The earliest known record of the Rohlfs surname dates back to 1622 in Germany, where one Bohm Rohlfs was mentioned in the city of Braunschweig. The Rohlfs surname also appears frequently in the Netherlands and in the United States, and is now found throughout Europe.
Throughout history, the Rohlfs family has been associated with many different fields. The name has been linked to seafaring, entreprenuerial endeavors, and a variety of different trades. This suggest that the Rohlfs' were a family of diverse interests and ambition, constantly striving to make a name for themselves.
In modern times the Rohlfs name is often used to refer to several distinct branches of the Rohlfs family. For example, some Rohlfs families originated in Canada around the turn of the 19th century, whilst others can trace their roots to Germany.
Overall, the Rohlfs surname symbolizes ambition, strength, and a connection to one's ancestral homeland. Throughout the generations this sense of legacy has ensured that the name Rohlfs remains a source of pride and tradition for those who carry it.
Order DNA origin analysisRohlfs: Where does the name Rohlfs come from?
The last name Rohlfs is most commonly found in Germany today. In Germany, it's estimated that approximately 4,400 people bear the last name Rohlfs. The last name is also found in some parts of the United states, where it's estimated that just around 300 people bear the name, making it much less common.
The origin of the last name Rohlfs is believed to be German and is derived from the old Saxon word 'rolvo', which means 'counsel'. People bearing this name were thought to have once been influential in providing council and advice to their community.
The Rohlfs surname is also found in other parts of Europe like Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands, where it is believed to be of Dutch origin. It is also found in parts of Eastern Europe, but at much lower numbers.
Rohlfs is a relatively uncommon name, but those that bear it have a rich family history. Studying the history of the Rohlfs surname can reveal interesting facts about the family and where it originated from. It's also interesting to see how this surname has spread around the world over time.
Variations of the surname Rohlfs
Rohlfs is an old German-Danish surname from which several other surnames derived. Derived surnames include Rohlf, Rolfs, Rolffs, Rolfsen, Rowlson, Rollf, Rollfs, Roulfs, Ruolfs, Rulofs, Rulphs and Rohnfos.
The spelling variants of the surname Rohlfs are primarily influenced by the language and region where the name originated. For example, the usual German spelling variants are "Rohlfs," "Rolfs," and "Rolffs." The Danish spelling variants of Rohlfs are usually seen as "Rolfsen" and "Rowlson."
Variants of the surname Rohlfs also exist in Dutch, with "Rollf," "Rollfs," and "Ruolfs," being the most common spellings. French variants such as "Rulofs" and "Rulphs" are derived from the name, while in Norwegian, the variant "Rohnfos" is seen.
Given the long history of the surname, the variants could have altered over time and may not all originate from the same source. However, all modern variants of the name Rohlfs can be traced as far back as old German-Danish origins.
Famous people with the name Rohlfs
- Kristen Rohlfs: American film and theatre actress
- Tyson Rohlfs: American professional bass angler
- George Rohlfs: German-American cabinetmaker
- Geiß-Rohlfs: German industrialist
- Axel Rohlfs: German classical philologist
- Erich Rohlfs: German zoologist
- Wagner Rohlfs: German zoologist
- Roland Rohlfs: German experimental psychologist
- Paul Rohlfs: German mathematician
- Tom Rohlfs: German modern pentathlete