Surname Geiss - Meaning and Origin
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iGENEA DNA test results revealing ties to the historic Geiss family of Switzerland. How this discovery impacted my self-understanding by altering my perceived familial heritage and instilled a renewed sense of identity.
D. Geiss
read moreGeiss: What does the surname Geiss mean?
Geiss is a German surname that originates from the Middle High German term "geiz," meaning goat. It was typically used as a nickname for someone who either tended goats or exhibited traits traditionally associated with goats like stubbornness or agility. As surname distribution and evolution often relate to regions, professions or personal characteristics, Geiss likely began referring to a family line where goat herding was common or someone in the family was known for their goat-like attributes. In contemporary times, the surname's meaning has no bearing on those who carry it. Surnames today are simply identifiers passed down through generations. However, tracing back can offer a glimpse into the lives and roles of our ancestors. Like many surnames, numerous variations of Geiss exist, including Geis, Geise, Geiser, and others.
Order DNA origin analysisGeiss: Where does the name Geiss come from?
The surname Geiss is of German origin. In German, "Geiss" or "Geiß" means "goat", so it's likely the name was initially given to someone who was a goat herder, or possibly used as a nickname for someone who displayed characteristics associated with a goat. This theory aligns with the common practice in Middle Ages where surnames were often derived from an individual's occupation or characteristics.
Today, this surname is found most frequently in Germany, specifically in the southern region of Bavaria. Besides Germany, Geiss is also common in other German-speaking countries such as Switzerland and Austria. In addition, due to migration over the centuries, the name can be found in other nations such as the United States, particularly in areas where German immigrants settled, including Pennsylvania and Ohio. Yet, despite its spread, Geiss is not a particularly common surname compared to other surnames of Germanic origin.
Variations of the surname Geiss
The surname Geiss is of German origin and is believed to be derived from a nickname for a capricious or unpredictable person, from Middle High German “geiz” meaning a whim or freak. In German-speaking countries, its variations also include Geis, Gies, Geise, Geihs, Giese, Geissen, Geiß, Gieß, and Göss.
It is also believed that the name could have originated from Giesz or Güss, an occupational name for a goatherd. Regional variants such as Geisler and Geissler, meaning the son of Geiss, are prevalent as well.
The spelling of surnames often changed over time and was influenced by the phonetic spelling by different recorders, changes in languages, and immigration. Therefore, in countries outside Germany, it could be Anglicized or Americanized into Gice, Gise, Gice, or even Guyce.
While researching this surname, it is essential to acknowledge these variations due to common spelling inconsistencies and phonetic similarities.
Despite the variations, the central theme across all these surnames remains tied to its German roots. It is always recommended to look at different spelling variants when researching genealogical records for better results.
Famous people with the name Geiss
- Robert "Bob" Geiss: A noted American screenwriter and producer known for his work on "The Young and the Restless" and "Too Darn Hot."
- Christopher Geiss: A German software developer and creator of the IRC client XChat.
- Derek Geiss: An established documentary filmmaker, specializing in travel and adventure films.
- Emily Geiss: A well-known artist and sculptress based in New York.
- Norbert Geis: A German politician, served as Bundestag from 1994 to 2013.
- Peggy Maley: Originally born as Margaret June Geiss, was an actress in America from the 1950s.
- Gerhard Geiss: Renowned German mathematician and professor at the University of Freiburg. Remember, Geiss and Geis can be interchangeable due to variations in German spelling. However, these are the most recognized individuals with this surname.