Surname Kalmar - Meaning and Origin
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Kalmar: What does the surname Kalmar mean?
The last name Kalmar has its roots in Central Europe and its surrounding regions. The oldest known use of the name dates back to 13th century Germany, where it was used as a nickname for someone from the city of Kalmar, Sweden. The city itself has its own origin story, derived from a Norse word meaning 'tower by a river'. The name Kalmar symbolizes a strong connection to courage and strength, often used as a surname by prominent German families of the time.
Kalmar is often associated with bravery, loyalty, and strength of character. It also has links to royalty, with many members of most royal families across Europe bearing the name. This is due to the connection between the Kalmar family and the Swedish royal house, as many of the king's consorts hailed from Kalmar.
Throughout the ages, Kalmar has been used across a variety of cultures, appearing as variations such as Kalmari, Kallmer, and Kalmarr. It is also frequently used as a first name, often given to sons to honor their ancestors.
The Kalmar surname has endured throughout history, providing a sense of connection between generations and nations. It has become a symbol of strength, courage, and honor, a legacy that will continue to live on long after its holders have passed.
Order DNA origin analysisKalmar: Where does the name Kalmar come from?
The last name Kalmar is most common in Europe, specifically in Germany, Austria, and Sweden. In Germany, it is most prevalent in the state of Berlin, with a population of about 15,200 people with the surname. In Austria, it is mainly found in the southernmost region of Styria, where approximately 4,400 people go by the last Kalmar. In Sweden, it is most common in the greater Stockholm region, where there are about 13,000 people with the surname.
Outside of Europe, the Kalmar surname is quite rare. In the United States, it is most widespread in New York and California, mainly originating from Swedish, German, and Austrian immigrants who settled in the country in the 18th and 19th centuries. There are currently around 2,000 people with the last name Kalmar in the United States.
In Canada, the Kalmar surname is quite uncommon. According to the last Canadian Census, there are about 300 people living in Canada with the last name Kalmar. Most of these are immigrants from Germany, Austria, and Sweden who moved to Canada in the late 19th and 20th centuries.
Worldwide, the Kalmar surname is most abundant in Europe. Even there, it is considered a relatively rare name, with an overall population of approximately 30,000 people.
Variations of the surname Kalmar
The surname Kalmar originates from Swedish and is derived from the city of Kalmar, located in the south-east of the country. The city was originally known as Kalmarn and its slight variation is thought to be the root of the surname. Kalmar is also found as a given name across Europe but likely originated from the native Swedish word for chalice – kalmar.
The spelling of Kalmar can vary depending on the language or dialect of the region. Some of the variants of the surname include Calmar, Kalmar, Kalmania, Kalmarth, Kalmari, Kalmer, Kalmir, Kalmmer, Kalmur, Kalmuri, Kalmus, Kalmuss, Kalmyr, Kalmyth, Kalnaer, Kalmair, Kalmaire, Kalmary, Kalmert, Kalmirth, Kalmyert and Kalmyrt.
In some countries, the surname has also been anglicised to Calmer, Calmery, Kalmery, Kemery and Kalmy. In Poland, some variants of the surname are Kalmowski and Kalmski. In Germany, the variants include Kalmer and Kalmert, while in Lithuania the variant is Kalmari.
The surname can be found throughout Europe, especially in Sweden, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, Hungary, Austria and Denmark. Some members of the Kalmar family have been influential, with Catherine of Sweden, who served as regent of Sweden from 1544-1551, and Johan August Sandels, who served as Swedish Minister of War in 1809-1810, coming from Kalmar families.
Famous people with the name Kalmar
- Barbi Kalmar: A Hungarian artist and fashion designer whose pastel artworks are showcased in galleries around the world.
- Alexander Kalmar: An Austrian businessman and industrialist. He was known for developing the Kalmar Truck, the first commercial vehicle in Europe.
- Adina Kalmar Devenyi: A Hungarian architect and designer who has worked on several projects in Budapest and other parts of the country.
- King Kalmar: An enigmatic figure from Swedish history, believed to have reigned during the 13th century. He is best known for founding the Kalmar Union, a union of Scandinavian countries.
- Artur Kalmar: A legendary Slovak professional footballer who played in the 1930s and 40s. He was considered one of the greatest strikers of his generation.
- Teresa Kalmar: A renowned French author best known for books like 'The Unquiet Soul' and 'The Magnificent Stadium'.
- Lucia Kalmar: An Italian journalist, artist and social activist. She is known for organizing several protests in Rome and other parts of Italy to support environmental awareness and women's rights.
- James Kalmar: An American composer and musician. He has composed music for films like 'Deep Impact' and 'The Patriot'.
- Damien Kalmar: A noted French painter who is known for his abstract artworks featuring vivid colours and geometric shapes.
- Clara Kalmar: A Danish entrepreneur and philanthropist. She is known for founding a charity which helps disadvantaged children through educational programs.