Surname Hochstedler - Meaning and Origin

Hochstedler: What does the surname Hochstedler mean?

The last name Hochstedler is of German origin and is derived from a personal name formed from the elements hoch (high) and stedler (settler or inhabitant). It is derived from Old High German and Middle High German, meaning the original bearer of the name was most likely a high-ranking settlement official or person who was frequently caught high up in the air.

The literal translation of the name Hochstedler means 'high settler'. It is a habitational or surname, often used for someone who lived near a hillock or certain area of high land. Variations of this surname include Hochstetler, Hochstadtler, Hochstättler, Hochstädler and Hochstaller.

The Hochstedler name is found most prominently within Germany, with pockets of those bearing this surname scattered across parts of the United States as a result of immigration from Germany in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Regardless of the whereabouts of those with the last name Hochstedler in today's world, it is clear that the original bearers of the name were of importance and given a high status due to their rank as settler or inhabitant.

Hochstedler: Where does the name Hochstedler come from?

The last name Hochstedler is primarily found in the United States, specifically in the Midwest. The states of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan are most likely to have residents with this surname. The surname is also common in some neighboring states such as Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Pennsylvania, as well as in the south, such as Kentucky and Tennessee.

In terms of specific counties in these states, Hochstedler is most popular in LaPorte County, Indiana; Holmes County, Ohio; and Branch County, Michigan. Not surprisingly, these areas were settled mainly by Amish and Mennonite immigrants from Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a result, community members shared similar names, including Hochstedler.

Along with the Midwest, Hochstedler is also common in the Northwest, particularly in Idaho; Oregon; and Washington, where it appears up to three times more frequently than in other parts of the country. It is also found in California at a moderate rate, along with a few other states in the West and Southwest.

Ultimately, the name Hochstedler is not widespread but can be found in specific areas with historically high concentrations of Amish and Mennonite families.

Variations of the surname Hochstedler

The most common spelling of the Hochstedler surname is as it appears, Hochstedler. Other variants of the surname follow a spelling tradition that existed prior to the 1600's when standardized spelling was not yet established. Common variants include the German Hochstütler, Hochstedtler, Hochstedele, Hochstädler, Hochstädtle, Hochstättler, and Höchstädler. Additionally, alternative spellings may appear depending on the region. For example, in areas where the spelling of other German words has been adopted into the language, such as Austria, variants of this surname may have a ‘ö’ or an ‘ü’ incorporated into them, such as Höchstädler or Hochstütler.

For the most part, these variants are geographically correlated. Hochstädler is common in southern Germany and Switzerland, while Höchstädler is more common in Austria. In addition to geographical variations, the surname may have been Americanized after some members of the Hochstedler family immigrated to the United States. Americanized versions of the surname may include Hochstetler, Hostetler, Hostettler, or Hottershell.

The origin of the surname is derived from the German word 'hochstetten', meaning 'high place'. It is to be noted, that the surname was not originally exclusive to Germany and variations of it appear in other countries as well, such as Denmark, where it appears as ‘Higisterdler’ and the Netherlands, where it appears in its Dutch form as ‘Hoogsteder’. Additionally, other variations have also been adopted in countries like France, such as Amulot, D’Haostedlarn and Jaguelot, and in some parts of Spain, where it is known as Hochstedlarena.

Therefore, the variants of the surname Hochstedler depend on the region and have a history that dates back to hundreds of years. The variants can range from subtle to extreme, and the exact origin and spelling depend on the geographical area.

Famous people with the name Hochstedler

• Ziggy Hochstedler: Ziggy is a Canadian country music artist and songwriter. He released his debut album, Halfway Home, in 2018.
• Larry Hochstedler: Larry is an American gospel singer based in Texas. He is known for his classic gospel sound, with a few modern twists.
• Judy Hochstedler: Judy is an Australian artist and writer. She is best known for her works of art that focus on environmental issues.
• Ernie Hochstedler: Ernie is an American award-winning wildlife photographer. He is dedicated to capturing the beauty of nature on film.
• Pam Hochstedler: Pam is an interior designer based in Seattle, Washington. She has designed homes for clients all around the world.
• Melanie Hochstedler: Melanie is an American actress and voice actress. She has lent her voice to countless cartoons and video games.
• Jon Hochstedler: Jon is an American big game hunter. He has documented his many expeditions across the globe.
• Joel Hochstedler: Joel is a Brazilian chef and restaurateur. He is the co-owner of a popular local dining spot in Rio de Janeiro.
• Alison Hochstedler: Alison is an American entrepreneur and businesswoman. She has founded several successful startups in the tech industry.
• Phil Hochstedler: Phil is an American multi-instrumental musician. He has released albums in a variety of styles and genres.

Other surnames

Höchstedter