What is the origin of the last name Kraus?

The last name KRAUS is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "kraus" which means "curly" or "frizzy." It is likely that the name was initially used as a nickname for someone with curly or unruly hair. Over time, it developed into a hereditary surname, passed down from generation to generation. The name KRAUS can be found predominantly in German-speaking regions, and variations of the name exist in other languages as well.

Countries of origin for the last name Kraus

The last name Kraus has its roots in Germany. It is derived from the Middle High German word “krus,” which means “curly.” This suggests that the original bearers of the surname either had curly hair or lived in an area where curly hair was common.

The surname Kraus is predominantly found in Germany, with a concentration in the Bavarian region. It is not as common in other parts of the world, although there are some individuals with this surname in the United States and other countries with German-speaking populations.

Historical records indicate that the Kraus family has a long-standing presence in Germany. The surname can be traced back to the Middle Ages, and there are records of individuals bearing the name as early as the 13th century.

Like many other German surnames, Kraus underwent changes in spelling and pronunciation over time. Variations of the name include Krause, Krauss, and Krausz. These variations may reflect regional or dialectal differences within Germany, as well as modifications that occurred when individuals bearing the surname migrated to other countries.

One notable individual with the surname Kraus is Karl Kraus, an Austrian writer and journalist who lived from 1874 to 1936. Karl Kraus was known for his biting satirical commentary on politics and culture. His work influenced many subsequent writers and intellectuals.

Despite the relative scarcity of the surname Kraus outside of Germany, individuals with this last name have likely made significant contributions to their respective communities and professions. However, due to the limited available information, it is challenging to pinpoint specific achievements or notable individuals with certainty.

In conclusion, the last name Kraus has its origins in Germany and is associated with the meaning “curly.” It has a long-standing presence in the country and is predominantly found in the Bavarian region. While variations of the surname exist, such as Krause and Krauss, the exact origins and significance of these variations can be challenging to determine. The surname has also been borne by notable individuals such as Karl Kraus, an influential Austrian writer and journalist. Despite limited information, it is apparent that individuals with the surname Kraus have likely made valuable contributions to their communities and professions. The study of the Kraus surname offers a glimpse into German history and society, providing an opportunity for further exploration and research.

Interesting facts about the last name Kraus

  • The surname Kraus is of German origin, derived from the Old High German word “krauso,” meaning “curly hair.”
  • Kraus is a fairly common surname in German-speaking countries, particularly in Germany and Austria.
  • The name Kraus has multiple variations and spellings, including Krauss, Krause, and Krausz.
  • Many individuals with the surname Kraus migrated to the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to its prevalence in American society.
  • The Kraus family name can be traced back to medieval times, and it is believed to have originated in the region of Bavaria in present-day Germany.
  • Throughout history, individuals with the surname Kraus have excelled in various fields, including academia, music, science, and literature.
  • Notable individuals with the surname Kraus include Austrian composer and conductor Joseph Martin Kraus, German poet and novelist Karl Kraus, and German journalist and author Erika Fuchs.
  • There are several places named Kraus or similar variations around the world, including Krausnick in Germany, Krauszów in Poland, and Krausovce in Slovakia.
  • The surname Kraus is often associated with traits such as intelligence, creativity, and perseverance.
  • Various coat of arms and crests have been associated with the Kraus surname, each representing different branches of the family with their own unique history and symbols.

Name Rank

#1890

There are around 19028 people with the last name Kraus in the US

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