Surname Schaeffer - Meaning and Origin
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Unveiling the Complexity of Being a Schaeffer: An Introspective Journey Guided by iGENEA DNA Test
Always considering myself a Schaeffer, the iGENEA DNA test brought forth a whole new understanding of my inherited identity. Sprung from a European heritage, my family's complex genetic lineage was revealed, joining not only Germany but also ties to Eastern Europe and amassing a rich tapestry spanning across eras and continents.
M. Schaeffer
read moreSchaeffer: What does the surname Schaeffer mean?
The surname Schaeffer is of German origin, meaning ‘shepherd’. It is derived from the German word ‘Schäfer’, which also serves as an occupational name for a herder of sheep. The name itself may also be a combination of two German words – the word ‘Schaff’, meaning a ‘boarder’ or ‘servant’, and the phrase ‘er’, which means ‘one who does’.
The Schaeffer surname appeared in early records dating back to the 12th century in various parts of Germany, England, and Switzerland. During this time, it was increasingly used by anyone who was engaged in the care of sheep. Over the centuries, the surname has experienced changes in spelling due to regional dialects and pronunciation.
In modern culture, the Schaeffer name is often associated with notable figures such as U.S basketball coach John Schaeffer or American actor David Schaeffer. One of the most iconic historic figures with the surname Schaeffer is Johann-Nicholas Schaeffer, believed to be the first conductor of classical music in Germany.
In summary, Schaeffer is a German surname meaning ‘shepherd’. It is derived from the German word ‘Schäfer’ and may also contain the words ‘Schaff’ and ‘er’. Today, many notable figures, including John Schaeffer and David Schaeffer, bear the surname. Historically, Johann-Nicholas Schaeffer is remembered as the first conductor of classical music in Germany.
Order DNA origin analysisSchaeffer: Where does the name Schaeffer come from?
The last name Schaeffer is a relatively common German surname. It exists all over Europe with the highest density of the name in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. It also has a noticeable presence in the United States as a result of German immigration.
The United States Census Bureau estimated that the surname Schaeffer came in at number 1,660 for surname frequency in 2018. The name is popular throughout the Midwestern and Northeastern parts of the United States, with Wisconsin, New York, and Pennsylvania having the highest densities. There is also a strong presence in California due to later waves of German immigration during the latter part of the 20th century.
In addition to America, Schaeffer is also found in countries on five continents. Canada, South Africa, Australia, and the UK also have sizable populations with the surname. Latin America and some parts of Asia also have a presence, although the name is much rarer there.
Overall, the last name Schaeffer is scattered all over the world, but concentrated in certain parts of the United States, Germany, and Austria. It is a popular name that continues to get passed down through the generations.
Variations of the surname Schaeffer
The surname Schaeffer has a variety of spellings and can be found in many countries. In Germany, it is written as Schäfer, Schäffer or Schaefer. In the Netherlands and Flanders, it is written as Schaeffer, Schaevers or Schaver. In France, it is written as Schaeffer, Schaeffers or Schaffers. In Austria, it is written as Schäffer, Schaffer or Schaefer. In Scandinavia and Finland, it is spelled as Schäfer, Schaefer or Schaffer.
In the United States, the Schaeffer surname is often written as Shafer, Shaffer or Shaver. The Schaffer spelling is also found in the United States, as well as in Germany and Austria.
There are a few variants that have different roots and a different meaning than the surname Schaeffer. For example, in Germany there is the Schäfler surname, meaning "one who breeds or sells sheep" or the Schäfferle surname, meaning "little shepherd". The Schaffitz surname is a variant of Schaeffer. In Germany, this surname is spelled Schaffitzel.
Surnames that are related to Schaeffer include Schäfers, Schäffers, Schaffners, Schaubes, Schaubers and Shafers.
Famous people with the name Schaeffer
- Rob Schaeffer: American professional golfer.
- Daisy Schaeffer: American actress known for her roles in Family Matters and Passions.
- Sebastian Schaeffer: Swiss-American actor and filmmaker.
- Johann Schaeffer: German astronomer and mathematician.
- Brielle Schaeffer: American actress known for her roles in Freaks and Geeks and Malcolm in the Middle.
- Josh Schaeffer: American professional soccer player.
- Susan Schaeffer Macaulay: American Christian author and speaker.
- Anton Schaeffer: German-American businessman and philanthropist.
- Amelia Schaeffer: American professional dancer and competitive figure skater.
- Steven Schaeffer: American astronomer and astrophysicist.