Surname Scherpenberg - Meaning and Origin
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Scherpenberg: What does the surname Scherpenberg mean?
The last name Scherpenberg is of Dutch origin and is derived from the combination of two Dutch words, ‘scherp’ and ‘berg’. In its literal form, Scherpenberg translates to “sharp hill”.
Often associated with the mountainous region of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, this name was more than likely given to a family who resided in an area with sharp hills. It can also be attributed to families whose ancestors once lived amongst such terrain.
There is also an alternate origin to the name Scherpenberg stemming from its use as a toponymic surname, meaning that it was given to someone who had historic ties to a specific location, where the mountain could be found.
Regardless of its origin, in present day the surname Scherpenberg remains a unique one. The name is only found in traceable records scattered across the Netherlands and Belgium with notable concentrations in the cities of Antwerp, Utrecht, Amsterdam, and Breda.
The association to the original “sharp hill” is still alive in present day, much to the pride of Scherpenberg families. Today, the name continues to remain as a testament to its origin, to the harsh but beautiful environments of the Dutch landscape.
Order DNA origin analysisScherpenberg: Where does the name Scherpenberg come from?
The last name Scherpenberg is a Dutch name that is common mainly in the Netherlands, Germany, and parts of Belgium, today. It is believed to be most common in the Netherlands with over 800 individuals with the last name. Both Dutch and German have variations of the name, such as Schepersberg and Scharpenberg, which can also be seen in some areas of Belgium.
The meaning behind the name is believed to be derived from the Dutch words “scherp” and “berg”. “Scherp” means sharp or keen and the word “berg” means mountain. This could be interpreted as a strong and bold mountain, which was likely derived from family crests and/or possibly their profession of farming and/or military service in the past.
Today, Scherpenberg remains a common Dutch name and is likely to be strongly associated with The Netherlands due to its reputation and origin. However, some branches have spread across the world, including to the United States, Canada, Australia, and even to South Africa. With so much variation of the name, it can also be highlighted as a unique name for those of Dutch heritage.
Variations of the surname Scherpenberg
The surname Scherpenberg is a Dutch toponymic surname derived from the village of Scherpenzeel in the Netherlands, known as ‘Scherpemunt’ at the time of origin. It is estimated that the family likely originated in the 14th century.
The spelling of the surname has varied over time depending on language and region. Possible variants include:
- Scherpenberg
- Scherpenburgh
- Scherpenburg
- Scherpenburgen
- Scherpenburch
- Scherpenbur
- Sharpenburg
- Scerpenburgh
- Scerpenbourg
- Jagerdrager
Additionally, there are derivative surnames, which also share the same origin as Scherpenberg, such as:
- Jagersdrager
- Jagterdrager
- Jagerdraeger
- Jagersdraager
- Jagersander
- Jagherdrager
- Jagerslingen
- Jagersbergen
- Jagerderader
- Jagersden
- Jagerserder
- Jagersiefen
- Jagarstraat
Overall, the many variants and derivatives of the surname Scherpenberg, appear to indicate a long and varied history for the family.
Famous people with the name Scherpenberg
- Rebecca Scherpenberg, Belgian actress
- Emilie Schmeltzer Scherpenberg, American reality show contestant
- Rudolph Arnheim, German-born American Psychologist
- Jürgen Scherpenberg, German equestrian show jumper
- Anna Elisabeth Scherpenberg, Danish author and journalist
- Hubertus Vredenberg, Dutch diplomat and politician
- Johanna Maria van der Gheynst, Dutch painter
- Paul-Albert Bara French diplomat
- Jan Willem Scherpenberg, Dutch sous-chef
- Carl Jérôme van Gerven van Scherpenberg, Dutch politician