Surname Link - Meaning and Origin

Unravelling My Ancestry: A Journey Through the History and Culture of the Link Surname Via DNA Test

Using an iGENEA DNA test, I embarked on a fascinating journey into my genealogical past, unravelling the history and origins of my surname–Link. This exploration led me across various geographical territories, touched on remarkable historical events and revealed an unexpected cultural connection, crafting an engrossing narrative about my ancestry.

P. Link

Link: What does the surname Link mean?

The surname Link has multiple origins. In some instances, it is of English and German origin, derived from the Old English term "hlinc" which means 'ridge'. It refers to people living in or near a ridge. In German, it also translates to 'left' or 'awkward', so it could have also referred to someone who was left-handed or clumsy.

In other cases, the name is of Dutch origin, derived from a nickname for someone who was very thin. This is taken from the Dutch word "link" which means 'thin' or 'weak'.

Like many surnames, the exact meaning can vary greatly based on regional differences and historical context. Therefore, while these interpretations provide some insight, the specific meaning of the surname Link may not be completely accurate for all individuals bearing the name.

Link: Where does the name Link come from?

The surname Link has multiple potential origins. It can be German, meaning someone who lived near a hill, or from the German personal name, Linke. The second possible origin is English; it could be a topographic name for someone who lived on a ridge or bank, derived from Old English 'hlinc'. The name has evolved through forms such as Lynke, and Lynk before becoming Link.

In terms of distribution, Link is quite common in Germany. According to Forebears.io, the surname is most prevalent in the United States today, with the highest density in North Dakota. However, in comparison to population, the surname has the highest frequency in Germany. Link is the 209th most common surname in Germany with approximately 87,642 bearers. In the United States, it is ranked 2738th, with approximately 13,330 bearers. The surname is also found in significant numbers in Poland, Australia, Canada, England, and Brazil.

Variations of the surname Link

The surname Link is of German and English origin. There are many variations and spellings related to the name Link. Such variants include Linke, Lynk, Linck, and Linker.

Some surnames of the same origin but different spellings include Linc, Linnk, and Linkk. These are less common but sometimes used.

Surnames with similar meanings and origins that could be related are Chain, Bond, and Tie. Additionally, the surname Link could be shortened or lengthened forms of other German surnames like Linkmann, Linker, or Linkh.

In German-speaking countries, the surname might also be encountered as von Link or zu Link, with 'von' or 'zu' indicating nobility in ancestral lineage.

Some other related surname could be 'Lynke' as in English-speaking countries 'y' is often interchanged with 'i' in the spelling of various names.

Please note some of these may not be directly linked or might have developed independently in different regions just based on the language similarities.

Famous people with the name Link

• Zhang Linken, a Chinese Artificial Intelligence researcher, entrepreneur, and investor.
• Byron Link, a former English cricketer.
• Link Wray, an influential American rock and roll guitar, songwriter, and singer
• Edward Link, an American inventor and the creator of the Link Trainer.
• Frederick C. Link, a former United States federal judge.
• Jonathan Link, a German writer, TV presenter, and actor.
• Katie Link, an American professional basketball player.
• John Link, an American physician and former professional baseball player.
• Adam Link, a fictional robot created by Eando Binder in the 1930s.
• Adam Link II, a remake of the Adam Link robot.
• Bryan Link, an American photographer and filmmaker.
• Christian Link, a former Swiss tennis player.
• Elliott Link, a former Canadian professional ice hockey player.
• Evan Link, an American comedian.
• Matthew Link, an American Olympic sailor.
• Phil Link, an American stuntman and actor.
• Ryan Link, an American hockey defenseman.
• Sam Link, an American racecar driver.
• Thomas Link, a German industrialist.
• Zane Link, an American professional Mixed Martial Arts fighter.

Other surnames

LinLinaghLinanLincecomLincecombLincecumLinchLincheLinchyLincicomeLincicumLinckLinckeLinckhLincksLincolnLindLindaLindaasLindacherLindackerLindackersLindahlLindalaLindallLindamanLindamoodLindartLindauer