Surname Kasper - Meaning and Origin
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Unveiling History: Fascinating Revelations of the Kasper Surname through iGENEA DNA Testing
My recent iGENEA DNA test provided intriguing insights into the history and geographic roots of the surname Kasper. The scientifically sound and accurate test analysed both my paternal and maternal lineages, revealing strong ties to Central Europe and the regions around the Baltic Sea. Moreover, the historical relevance of the name 'Kasper' came to the forefront, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Z. Kasper
read moreKasper: What does the surname Kasper mean?
The surname Kasper is of ancient Greek origin, derived from the personal name "Kaspar" or "Gaspar". The name was popular among early Christians and usually given in reference to one of the Magi (Wise Men) who are said to have visited the baby Jesus in the Bethlehem stable, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The biblical name is most likely Persian or Armenian in origin and is believed to mean "Treasurer". Hence, the surname Kasper might have initially been a nickname for a person who had the occupation of a treasurer. Over time, such occupational names often became hereditary surnames. As with many surnames, regional variations exist in different countries, with alternate spellings such as Casper, Gaspar, and Kaspar. Today, bearers of the surname Kasper can be found in many parts of the world, with notable concentrations in Germany, the United States, and Australia.
Order DNA origin analysisKasper: Where does the name Kasper come from?
The last name Kasper originates from Germany. It is derived from a given name, Kaspar or Caspar, which was one of the names traditionally ascribed to the three wise men who visited baby Jesus in the New Testament. The name Kasper was also popular in the Middle Ages, due to the famous saint with the same name, St. Caspar who was celebrated as one of the three magi.
Primarily, Kasper is common in Germany, but over time, it has spread to various parts of the world due to migratory patterns, including countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Denmark. In Poland, this surname may be spelled as "Kacper" or "Kaśper". It is also used as a first name in some Nordic countries like Denmark and Sweden. It's worth noting that the frequency of the surname may vary regionally within these countries.
Despite its origins, the name Kasper is not among the most common surnames in Germany today. Its global distribution shows a higher concentration in Denmark, according to Forebears, a genealogical website that provides details about the distribution of surnames worldwide.
Variations of the surname Kasper
The surname Kasper has various alternate spellings, regional influences, and variants that are rooted in different cultures and languages. Some variants include Kaspar, Casper, Caspar, and Gasper. These are observed in different regions of Europe, mainly central and eastern Europe.
The name originates from Variations of the name are observed in different regions across Europe due to cultural and linguistic differences. For example, "Casper" is more common in present-day Germany, while "Kaspar" might be seen in Czech Republic or Slovakia.
The surname Kasper may also have further variations attributed to specific regions within a country. For example, the surname Kasperek in Poland, Kasperski in Russian-speaking regions, or Kasprowicz in eastern Europe. Additionally, the use of spelling variations over time further diversified the surname, adding variants such as Kasprik or Kasprzyk.
Derived surnames may also exist, where the name Kasper forms a part of the surname, signifying descent or kinship. For example, Kaspersen or Kaspersson could indicate "son of Kasper." Similarly, Kasperovich could denote "son of Kasper" in Belarus or Russia.
In some cases, there may be surnames that are phonetically similar to Kasper, such as Kaspereit, Kasperowicz, or Kasprzak which are attributable to regional language influences.
Famous people with the name Kasper
- Walter Kasper: A German Roman Catholic Cardinal, theologian, and bishop.
- Kasper Schmeichel: A Danish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Leicester City and the Denmark national team. He is the son of Peter Schmeichel, legendary Manchester United goalkeeper.
- Kasper Hämäläinen: A Finnish professional football midfielder.
- Karol Kasper: An American fashion designer.
- Kasper Bjørke: A Danish music producer and DJ, known for his electronic music.
- Paul Kasper: An American basketball player who played in the NBA during the 1950s.
- Frank Kasper: An American football player who played in NFL during the 1940s.
- Jason Kasper: An American author known for his thrillers series.
- Astrid Kasper: A German artist known for her vibrant abstract paintings.
- Kasper Holten: A Danish stage director, particularly known for his opera productions.
- Kasper Risgård: A Danish former professional footballer.
- Kasper Collin: A Swedish film director, known for documentaries like "I Called Him Morgan."
- Kasper Dolberg: A Danish professional footballer who plays as a forward for OGC Nice and the Denmark national team.
- Kasper Kruse: A Danish actor known for his appearances in many Danish TV series and films.
- Kasper Winding: A Danish composer, film director, and musician.
- Kasper Siegismund: An American TikTok personality and comedian.