Surname Kleemaier - Meaning and Origin
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Kleemaier: What does the surname Kleemaier mean?
The last name Kleemaier originates from the German language, and is a combination of two elements – “Klee” and “Maier.” The name translates to ‘Clover guard’ or ‘Clover farmer.’ This was traditionally a name given to a farmer who was responsible for the clover plantations. The name has now become quite common in Europe and North America, and is used by a variety of different families and cultures.
The “Klee” element can be traced back to the German word for clover, and “Maier” to an Old Germanic occupation meaning farmer. The word “Kleemaier” is also similar to the modern German term “Kleebauer,” meaning clover farmer.
The name Kleemaier is steeped in German history and culture, and is a testament to the importance of clover and farming in an earlier era. As a surname, it communicates a sense of history and heritage, as well as a connection to the natural world and agrarian life. The name is still used by a variety of families today, retaining its original connection to clover farming and the agrarian lifestyle.
Order DNA origin analysisKleemaier: Where does the name Kleemaier come from?
The last name Kleemaier is most commonly found in East and Central Europe, particularly in Germany and other parts of the former German Empire. It has been around since at least the 12th century, but the modern version has probably been in existence for noted by research since the 1600s.
Today the name is in high concentrations in countries such as Germany, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Belgium, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland. While it is uncommon in other countries, its presence can be seen in the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Argentina, Brazil and South Africa.
In terms of Germany, the highest concentrations of "Kleemaier" are found in the larger cities as well as in much of the central east and south of the country. The name can generally be found more prevalent along the borders that would have been parts of the former Germanic empire – such as Belgium and Czech Republic, and closer to the former eastern border further south of Germany. In modern times, many in the Kleemaier lineage have migrated to other parts of Germany and then come to settle permanently in the United States, Canada, Australia and other parts of the world.
Overall, the last name Kleemaier is one that is most powerful and active in East and Central Europe, with Germany being the center of activity. It has been able to spread and take ahold in many countries across the world since the 1600s, showing its resilience and its dedication to being a family name that is known and strong today.
Variations of the surname Kleemaier
The surname Kleemaier is of German origin, and can be spelled in a variety of ways. The original spelling of the surname is Kleimayer, however numerous alternate spellings can be encountered, such as Kleimäier, Kleimair, Kleemeyer, Klamair, Kliemayer, Klimaier, Kleinmayer, Klemmayer, Klement, Klemens, Kleemaier, Kliemmeier, Klimmayer, Klimerer, and even Klimmer.
This surname is derived from a German word 'kleem' which means 'clay', thus 'Kleemaier' could refer to a worker who works in clay. It can also be seen as a variation of the surname 'Kleemann' which is a combination of two German words 'klee' meaning 'clover' and 'mann' meaning 'man', it was originally given to a man living near a field of clover.
The surname Kleemaier is quite uniquely spelled but its variants are also found in other countries. In the US and Canada, it is usually seen as Kleeman, while in the Netherlands it can be spelled as Klijmair. In England, Scotland, and Wales, the spelling is almost always 'Clements'.
In some cases, this surname has also been changed depending on language or country in which it is found, becoming Klimmer in Ukraine and Klement in Lithuania. Many other variations are also found throughout the world, such as Klementyev in Russia, Kliem in Estonia, Klimatka in Poland, and Climenco in Romania.
Regardless of its many variations, the underlying origin of the surname Kleemaier is clear, and reveals the familial connection one has with their ancestors.
Famous people with the name Kleemaier
- Julian Kleemaier: an American artist known for his abstract figurative painting and drawing.
- Andrew Kleemaier: the CEO of the non-profit Animal Care Centers.
- Christian Kleemaier: a German football player who has played in the German Bundesliga.
- Nicole Kleemaier: a German film director and producer whose body of work includes several critically acclaimed films.
- Garry Kleemaier: a lawyer and former Australian politician who served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1998 to 2004.
- Amelie Kleemaier: a German actress best known for her role in the television series Das Boot and her feature film recall.
- Kelly Kleemaier: an American caster of live eSports tournaments, commentator and analyst.
- Stephanie Kleemaier: a fashion designer and former model from the UK.
- Joe Kleemaier: an American rock musician who has been involved in the music industry since the mid-1970s.
- Lance Kleemaier: an American professional poker player and celebrated tournament player.