Surname Lind - Meaning and Origin

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As a Lind, I thought my ancestry was clear cut, but my iGENEA DNA test opened a world of genetic diversity, revealing an interconnected human story. This journey not only expanded my understanding of heritage, but also redefined the meaning of my name.

Z. Lind

Lind: What does the surname Lind mean?

The last name Lind originates from the old Norse word "lind," which means "lime or linden tree". It is a topographic name for someone who lived near a lime or linden tree, or a habitational name from various places named with this word. The name became popular in several regions, including England, Scandinavia, and Germany. It is important to note that, given the historical migrations and language changes, the last name can have different origins in different countries. In some cases, it might also have derived from individual's first name lined, prevalent during the Middle Ages. Nowadays, Lind is a common surname in countries like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. It's also found, although less commonly, in Germany, the United States, and other countries.

Lind: Where does the name Lind come from?

The surname Lind originates from Scandinavia, particularly Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. It is derived from the Old Norse word ‘lind,’ which means ‘lime’ or ‘linden tree.’ It was often designated to people living near or in a place abundant with lime/ linden trees. Today, the last name Lind retains a strong presence in Scandinavia. According to surname distribution data, it is most common in Sweden, followed by Norway, Denmark, and Finland. Outside of Scandinavia, the surname also appears in Germany and the United States, notably in areas with significant Scandinavian immigration history. It's worth noting that Lind can also be a variant of the German/Jewish surname "Lindt," meaning 'gentle' or 'mild.' It is distinct but similar to the Scandinavian origin. Therefore, the surname also holds strong roots in German-speaking countries. Furthermore, the surname is found in a Jewish Ashkenazic context.

Variations of the surname Lind

The surname Lind has its origins in many European countries, including Germany, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. Variants and spellings of Lind may differ depending on the country of origin. These include Lint, Lynd, Lynde, Lindt, Lindte, Lindets, Lindz, Lyndes, Lynds, and Linds.

In some regions, the name could have prefixes or suffixes added to it as well. For example, in Germany, the surname could appear as Von Lind or Von Lindt, indicating noble lineage. Similarly, in Swedish or Norwegian contexts, names like Lindstrom, Lindberg, Lindgren, or Lindqvist are common, where the 'Lind-' prefix is combined with a second element referring to geographical features or occupations.

Surnames similar in meaning to Lind, which means 'lime tree' in German, also exist in other languages. For example, the English equivalent could be Line or Lindon, and the French equivalent could be Tilleul.

It's important to note that variations in the spelling and formation of the surname could also be due to regional dialects, historical changes in language and spellings, translation errors, or personal choices made by families.

Famous people with the name Lind

• Bob Lind: Singer-songwriter from the 1960's folk rock scene widely known for his hit single "Elusive Butterfly".
• Frida Lind: Swedish singer and songwriter known for her work in the pop duo Summer Obsession.
• Cameron Lind: English disc jockey and host of the weekly Global BeatsRadio show.
• Jesse Lind: American sculptor, most famous for her works using metal, stone, and organic materials.
• Vic Lind: Retired American baseball pitcher who played for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Texas Rangers.
• Dabney Lind: Award-winning entrepreneur, executive, and venture capital investor in the fashion, lifestyle, and health and fitness industries.
• Emelie Lind: Professional snowboarder, competiting at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
• Mohammad Ali Lind: Swedish author and scientist who works in the fields of ecology and global warming.
• Greta Lind: Swedish actress who appeared in films such as The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and Beyond the Borders.
• August Lind: German-born singer and songwriter popular in the 1940s site jazz scene.

Other surnames

LinLinaghLinanLincecomLincecombLincecumLinchLincheLinchyLincicomeLincicumLinckLinckeLinckhLincksLincolnLindaLindaasLindacherLindackerLindackersLindahlLindalaLindallLindamanLindamoodLindartLindauerLindbauerLindbeck