Surname Bartolf - Meaning and Origin
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Bartolf: What does the surname Bartolf mean?
The last name Bartolf has Germanic origins, being derived from two words meaning "fame" and "wolf". It is believed to have come to the Germanic countries from the Latin Bartholomaeus, meaning son of [the biblical figure] Talmai.
In Germany, the name Bartolf was most likely used as a first name in honor of Saint Bartholomew. Over time, the name became a surname, suggestive of a family line of people remembered for their bravery and strength.
The surname Bartolf has an interesting history, as its springboard is the Latin word Bartholomaeus, itself derived from Talmai, a biblical figure. This connection with a revered figure likely granted the name a certain reverence throughout the ages.
The name Bartolf is still common throughout much of Europe, and is often presented as a sign of distinction. Many people have adopted the name or are descended from those who did, suggesting the name is still seen as an important part of heritage and family history.
The modern meaning of the name Bartolf is not entirely clear, although it is likely associated with bravery, strength and a great sense of honour. Those who bear this name may be channeling their ancestors' strength of character, and may wish to be seen as an important figure in the family.
Order DNA origin analysisBartolf: Where does the name Bartolf come from?
The last name Bartolf is most commonly found in the United States and Canada, but it has an international presence in other countries such as Germany, Netherlands, England, Scotland, France, and Switzerland. As of the most recent census, there were over 1,000 individuals in the US with the Bartolf last name.
In the US, the most densely clustered populations of Bartolfs are found in the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Massachusetts. States that have smaller populations of Bartolfs compared to the national average include California, Florida, Washington, and Arizona.
The Bartolf last name originates from Germany and is associated with a number of etymological root words. In the German language, the name translates to mean ‘son of Bartholomew’, where ‘bartholomew’ is derived from the Aramaic language and means ‘son of furrows’. Thus, the Bartolf name was historically given to the children of farmers and agricultural workers.
Although most prevalent in the United States and Canada today, the Bartolf last name can still be found in some of the countries where it originated from such as Germany, the Netherlands, England, Scotland, France, and Switzerland.
Variations of the surname Bartolf
The surname Bartolf has varied in spelling and pronunciation throughout the centuries. It has several variants including Bartoloff, Bartelow, Bartloff, Bartolfe, Bartolphi, Bartolffi, Bartolphi, Bartoff, and Bartolfi.
All of these variations stem from a Germanic surname with the elements "berht," meaning bright and "wolf," meaning wolf. Early bearers of the name were likely given the surname because of their physical features or quality of character.
In terms of geographical influences, the surname Bartolf is found mostly in Germany, with a significant presence existent in Austria and Switzerland as well.
Due to its Germanic origins, Bartolf has often been changed to anglicized versions, such as Bartlow or Bartlew in England. In the United States, Bartolf gave rise to surnames such as Bartles, Bartlet, Bartlett, Bartletts, Bartlowe, Bartlow, Bartolic, Bartoles, Bartolic-Klinka, and Bartolovic.
Approximately 800 people in the US bear the surname Bartolf today, and as a result of immigration, this surname is present, significantly, in northeastern parts of the United States (New York/Pennsylvania). In addition, the surname Bartolf might originate from a location named Bartolf, which is associated with the palatre of Hulftegg in Germany.
The geographic trends of the surname Bartolf indicate it is a German surname with a reach and history that has varied over time and flourished across borders.
Famous people with the name Bartolf
- Kristin Bartolf: American film and television actress
- Wilbert Bartolf: Spanish actor
- Tim Bartolf: American singer-songwriter
- John Bartolf: American football player
- Rich Bartolf: American professional hockey player
- Robert Bartolf: Australian business executive
- Cynthia Bartolf: American actress
- Jennifer Bartolf: American singer, songwriter and producer
- Mark Bartolf: American filmmaker
- Tyler Bartolf: American composer and music producer