Surname Meisgeier - Meaning and Origin
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Meisgeier: What does the surname Meisgeier mean?
The surname Meisgeier is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German words “meise” and “geier” which literally translates as “titmouse” and “vulture.”It is likely that the name was originally derived from the family’s occupation of falconry or venery in the Middle Ages, as both words suggest expertise in taming birds of prey. The Titmouse was especially associated with good luck and so may have been especially prized.
Although the exact origin of the surname remains unclear, Meisgeier could also refer to anything from a chamberlain to a smith. Whatever the original source, the name today likely refers to a leader or master of some kind, implying a proud and unique heritage.
Today, the surname is still found primarily in Europe. It is slowly becoming more common in the United States, indicating the long lineages of European families and their descendants who have migrated to the United States over the years.
Order DNA origin analysisMeisgeier: Where does the name Meisgeier come from?
The surname Meisgeier is not particularly common, but does exist around the world today. It is of German origin, with its literal meaning being “mayor”, implying a person of noble or prestigious background. It has been found throughout Europe, particularly in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and other German-speaking areas.
In the United States, the surname is found mainly in Pennsylvania, with some instances in Texas, New York, and Iowa. It can also be found in Canada, particularly in Quebec. In Australia, it has been found in Victoria and New South Wales. In South America, it has also been reported in Argentina and Chile, indicating possible immigration from Europe in the late 19th or early 20th century.
It remains an uncommon name, and its exact prevalence and numbers remain unknown. However, the general trend is that it most likely exists in areas with German-speaking populations, either native or with historical German migration, as well as areas with a strong Germanic cultural focus.
Variations of the surname Meisgeier
The surname Meisgeier is of German origin and has several variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. Variants include Mesgeier, Mes friendly, Miesgeier, Meizgayer, and Meisberger. These variants are often used interchangeably.
Meyer (Meyers, Myer, Myers, Maier, Mayr) is the most common surname, derived from the personal name Meiger, originated from Middle high German meiger. Meiger in turn is a variation of the name Meister. This name literally means ‘master’ and was often given to a master craftsman.
Maisch (Maesch, Mesch, Mesche, Maische), meaning ‘small’, is another variant of the surname. It is derived from the Old Germanic name Meisch, which was often used as a nickname for a modest or humble person.
Meifert (Meiffert) is also derived from the German word Meister (master). The variant Meifert can be traced back to the answering of the Lord's Prayer by Medieval-era peasants, as the Lord's Prayer originally began with the word ‘meifer’.
Gager (Geyer, Geier) is thought to have derived from the personal name Gago. This name comes from Middle High German gaga, which means ‘hawk’. It was often used as a nickname for someone with an aggressive or hawk-like character.
The surname Meisgeier is found in many countries, including Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, among others. Generally, the spelling and variations of the surname may change from one country to another.
Famous people with the name Meisgeier
- Lady Gaga (Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta née Meisgeier): Lady Gaga is an American singer and songwriter. She is renowned for her pop-dance songs, eccentric style, and provocative visuals.
- Sean Mahan: Sean Mahan is an offensive lineman in the NFL. He has played for teams such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Kathryn Meisgeier: Kathryn Meisgeier is a filmmaker and opera singer. She is currently a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University.
- Dormer Meisgeier: Dormer Meisgeier is a retired basketball player. He played in the NBA for the Atlanta Hawks.
- Kay Meisgeier: Kay is an actress, writer, and producer known for her work on television series such as Big Little Lies, Westworld, and Girls. 6.John Meisgeier: John Meisgeier is a stuntman and actor. He has performed stunts in Star Trek, The Mummy, and Mission: Impossible 2.
- Ann Meisgeier: Ann Meisgeier is a sculptor from California. Her work has been displayed in galleries in the United States and abroad.
- David Meisgeier: David Meisgeier is a video game designer. He is the co-founder of the Guildhall at Southern Methodist University.
- Jay Meisgeier: Jay Meisgeier is a musician. He has released various jazz, blues, and rock albums over the course of his career.
- Kirk Meisgeier: Kirk Meisgeier is a boxer who has competed in the heavyweight division. He is a former National Champion in the sport.