Surname Eckharter - Meaning and Origin
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Eckharter: What does the surname Eckharter mean?
The last name Eckharter is one of German and Swiss origin. It is derived from the Old Germanic word “eagle”, derived from the Proto-Germanic word *akran, which refers to a predatory bird of prey. The name means “protector eagle”, i.e. a brave and mighty protector.
From a cultural perspective, the name Eckharter has nonetheless been connected to the eagle’s lore of bravery, loyalty, strength, and honor. This connection of the eagle to strength and protection is inspired by its habit of nesting on high cliffs and mountains, surveying its surroundings with its sharp eyes and making brave dives when defending its territory.
Throughout history, the emblem of the eagle has been widely used as a symbol of strength and power in many countries. For example, ancient Romans used the eagle as their symbol, and the country of Germany has adopted it as their national symbol. In fact, the eagle has been associated with the German people for centuries.
The last name Eckharter is a variation of the Germanic word for “eagle” and carries with it many of the same associations of bravery, loyalty, strength, and honor, as well as the historical connection to the eagle's lore of might. It is a proud name to bear, a steady reminder of a rich heritage and a strong sense of protection.
Order DNA origin analysisEckharter: Where does the name Eckharter come from?
The last name Eckharter is most commonly found in Austria and Germany. It is an uncommon name, so it is also found in other European countries as well as in the United States and elsewhere around the world. In Austria, the Eckharter spelling is more commonly found in the western state of Vorarlberg, and is popular in Salzburger Land as well. In Germany, the name is concentrated in Bavaria and the surrounding states.
Eckharters are believed to descend from the Bavarian noble family of the same name. This is one of the oldest known noble families in the country who can trace their lineage back to the 14th century. They were initially a wealthy and powerful family even prior to the Middle Ages and gained further prominence during the course of hundreds of years.
The Eckharter family is still documented in some of the more prominent Austrian towns and villages such as Vilsac in the northern province of Novengrad, and Hotzenplotz and Bachgraben in the eastern states of Burgenland and Voralberg. The name is also still found in the regions of the former German provinces of East and West Prussia as well as in the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Variations of the surname Eckharter
Eckharter is a surname of German origins, predominantly found in Southern Germany, and parts of Austria. It is shared by several thousand people living in those areas.
The initial spelling of Eckharter is generally accepted to be the correct one and, case constant, there are a few variants that have emerged over the years. They include: Eckhart, Ezekhart, Echekart, Eckhört, Eckehart, Eckerharth, Eckerhart, Ezekharth, Ecchard, Ekhard and Ekkehart.
Eckhart is the most common variant as many people have changed the spelling over the years. It is also a popular German given name taken from the original surname. This spelling can be found in German documents as early as the 1500s and is the most widespread form of the name in modern times.
Surnames of similar origin include Eckerl, Eckert, Eckard, Eckhardt, and Eckshartz. All of these surnames have the same elements of the original, Eckharter, and are believed to come from the same origins.
All of these variations are found with families from Germany and Austria, Waldviertel in particular. The surname is a testament to the longevity of German surnames and their widespread usage across the area through the centuries.
Famous people with the name Eckharter
- Alex Eckhart: German Retired Handball player
- Jessica Eckhart: American professional Freerunner
- Hélène Eckhart: French professional sailor
- Yves Eckhart: French former football player
- Dr. Max Eckhart: Swiss author and doctor
- Philip Eckhart: American Film and Television producer
- Karl-Heinz Eckhart: German politician
- Sven Eckhart: German banker and CEO of Berliner Volksbank
- Andreas Eckhart: German football goalkeeper
- Robert Eckhart: American wildlife artist, fish carver, and taxidermist