Surname Bachs - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'B'
Bachs: What does the surname Bachs mean?
The surname Bachs is of German origin and is derived from the word "bach," which means "stream" or "brook". Its roots can be traced back to residents living near a stream or brook, who were then identified by the geographical feature. This form of surname, related to geographical features or landmarks, is known as a topographic surname. As with many last names, variations have evolved over time based on region and language, including Bach, Baach, and Bacch.
The most famous bearer of a variant of this surname is Johann Sebastian Bach, the renowned Baroque-era composer from Germany. Noteworthy, the plurality "Bachs" isn't generally used as a surname but rather to refer collectively to members of the Bach family, many of whom were also accomplished musicians. The exact meaning of the surname can vary slightly depending on regional dialects and historical usage.
Order DNA origin analysisBachs: Where does the name Bachs come from?
The surname Bachs originates from Germany and is related to the world-famous composer Johann Sebastian Bach. The term "Bach" means "brooks" or "streams" in Old German, implying that the original bearers of this name might have lived by a brook or stream. This surname has variations such as Bach, Back, Bache, or Bachman in different regions.
It is a prevalent surname among the German, Dutch, and Jewish (Ashkenazic) communities. Given the widespread emigration patterns, this last name is also commonly found in the United States, particularly among the descendants of German immigrants. However, in Spain and some Latin American countries, Bachs may also be a geographical surname, as "Bachs" is a common toponym there. It is essential to note that the occurrence and concentration of the surname might vary within these regions. Like any other surnames, Bachs too, over centuries, has spread to different parts of the world due to immigration and naturalization, resulting in localized clusters worldwide.
Variations of the surname Bachs
The surname Bachs may have several variants, including Bache, Bach, Bacha, Baech, Baach, Bech, Beche, Bak, Bakke, Back, and Baak. This surname, especially in its 'Bach' form, has a strong presence in Central Europe, particularly in Germany. It is derived from the Middle High German 'bach,' meaning a stream or creek. Thus, it was often given to individuals residing near a stream.
Moreover, Bachs may also be related to the Anglicized version 'Beck,' often found in English-speaking countries. Some families might have changed the name to 'Beck' upon immigration for easier pronunciation.
Further, in some instances, people carrying this surname might add '-mann' to it, making it 'Bachmann,' which translates to 'man living by the stream.'
Spanish variations may include 'del Rio,' which translates to 'of the river,' and 'Baches,' carrying a similar meaning to the original surname.
These variants may bear slight adjustments depending on local dialects and languages, but they all root from a similar origin point. It should be noted that the spelling variations are impacted primarily by regional linguistic conventions, immigrant translation, and personal preference.
Famous people with the name Bachs
- Johann Sebastian Bach: A highly influential German composer and musician of the Baroque period. He is known for compositions such as "The Well-Tempered Clavier" and "Brandenburg Concertos."
- Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach: The second surviving son of Johann Sebastian Bach, he was an important composer in the transitional period between the Baroque and Classical eras. His works influenced the development of the sonata form.
- Johann Christian Bach: The eleventh son of Johann Sebastian Bach, Johann Christian became known as the "London Bach." He was a composer of the Classical era, producing works in various genres like symphonies, concertos, and chamber music.
- Wilhelm Friedemann Bach: The eldest son of Johann Sebastian Bach, he was also a composer and an organist.
- Maria Barbara Bach: The first wife of Johann Sebastian Bach, she was also a cousin of his. Their union produced seven children, some of whom became notable composers and musicians.
- Anna Magdalena Bach: The second wife of Johann Sebastian Bach and notable musical copyist, she contributed significantly to her husband's work. It's crucial to clarify that all these people are related and belong to a famous family of musicians known as the Bach family, and their last name is Bach, not Bachs.
- Ed Bachs: A less well-known American singer and songwriter, specializing in pop and country music.