Surname Cleemann - Meaning and Origin
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Cleemann: What does the surname Cleemann mean?
The last name Cleemann is of Germanic origin and is derived from the Middle High German personal name 'Klemen, Klemens'. It is a variation of 'Klem' and is thought to mean 'he who holds, grasps, seizes or enslaves'. The name was used for both given and surnames during the Middle Ages and is believed to have been introduced to northern Europe during the third crusade.
The name Cleemann is found in northern Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. It is the most common spelling of the name, but variations found include Clemmons, Clemen, Clemens, Klemens, Cleemans and Klemmen. The peak popularity of the Cleemann name occurred during the 18th century.
The Cleemann name remained popular throughout the centuries and throughout different countries. It was more prominent in northern Europe than in other countries. People with this surname might have a high sense of determination, energy, and motivation. They are often hard-working individuals who strive for success and take charge of their goals.
This surname often demonstrates a caring and compassionate nature, with those bearing the name inspiring trust in those around them. People with this name are often known for their dedication and loyalty. It is thought that the origin of this name suggests those bearing it remain enslaving in regards to their dedication and commitment; they are loyal to friends and family and are commonly known to provide help and support when needed.
Order DNA origin analysisCleemann: Where does the name Cleemann come from?
The last name Cleemann is most common today in Northern Germany – particularly in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern – but can also be found in various concentrations throughout the country. The name is also widespread in neighboring nations, such as Switzerland and the Netherlands, as well as in the United States and parts of Canada.
The origin of the Cleemann surname is likely derived from the Old Germanic personal name "Kleaman," which, over time, was given various spellings and developed into Cleemann. The name is translated as "en inventive leader" or "clever man."
Cleemanns from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern can trace their ancestry back to the Middle Ages. One branch of the family hails from Wismar and includes the brothers Johann and Gotthelf Cleemann, who served as the mayor and deputy mayor of the city in 1521 and 1547, respectively.
The Cleemann name is still common in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and throughout Germany today. The many spelling and pronunciation variations – including Claman, Clemman, Klemann, and Klemman – contribute to its wide dispersal. In the United States, the surname is relatively uncommon, yet it bears mention in the records of early German settlers in the country.
Variations of the surname Cleemann
The surname Cleemann is derived from the Old German name Clemann. This name can be spelled in various ways, such as Klimann, Kliemann, Kliemant, Kleeman, Kleemann, and Klämann. Surnames related to this name include Claman, Klemons, Kleimann, and Clemmons.
The name Clemann is believed to have originated from the Middle High German word "Clieman" meaning "mercantile man" or “Caporalishopman”. This suggests that the original holders of the name were involved in the business of caporalishopmanship, which was a profession practised in the Middle Ages that involved financial negotiation or mediation.
The name is most commonly found in countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark. In Germany, it is believed to have originated in Clemency, a small town located in the Westphalia area. It is sometimes also spelled Clemens, Clamens, Klemens, Kleemens, or Clemants.
In the Netherlands, the surname Cleemann is most often found in the provinces of North and South Holland. It is also found in the provinces of Zeeland, Gelderland, Overijssel, Utrecht, and Groningen, as well as in the towns of Maastricht, Zwolle, and Utrecht.
The surname is also found in Denmark, where it is sometimes ruled as Clemann or Klement. Among other variants, it is also found as Clemmons, Kleemann, Klementz, Klāmann, Klīmants, Clementz, Kliemants, and Clamens.
Famous people with the name Cleemann
- Holger Cleemann: Danish former football player who competed in the 1972 Summer Olympics
- Adolph Cleemann: 19th-century German botanist
- Lyder Cleemann: 18th-century Norwegian philologist, naturalist and physician
- Klaus Cleemann: German engineer and business consultant
- Peter Cleemann: Australian sculptor and painter
- Anne Cleemann: Danish mineralogist
- Irv Cleemann: American professional golfer
- David Cleemann: German fashion photographer
- Ryder Cleemann: British chef and entrepreneur
- Michael Cleemann: Danish film director, writer, and producer