Surname Schmaltz - Meaning and Origin
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Schmaltz: What does the surname Schmaltz mean?
The last name Schmaltz is a German name, originating “from the Yiddish word shmalts, meaning rendered animal fat”, specifically chicken fat. The common use of this fat made it a significant source of protein in many cultures. It is also used in cooking, as a substitute for butter or oil for frying, as well as a flavor enhancer.
The surname is believed to have originated during medieval times when Jewish people were identified and potentially taxed for food items, particularly ones that were kosher. It is thought that those with this name were associated with homes (or other dwellings) where chicken fat was bought and sold. The name Schmaltz was likely associated with an individual or family who was known for selling this type of fat.
As for relevance today, the Schmaltz surname is still associated with Jewish heritage, as well as the traditional Jewish practice of rendering animals fats. In modern Jewish culture, individuals with this last name are often honored and respected for their important connection to Jewish ancestry and history. It has become a rarer name, as the demand for chicken fat has declined, but has not been lost. It still speaks to the strength of Jewish culture and the practices that have endured for centuries.
Order DNA origin analysisSchmaltz: Where does the name Schmaltz come from?
The last name Schmaltz (or Schmaltz) is most commonly found in Germany today. Originally, the name originated in the Middle Ages, likely derived from the Old German given name "Schmal,” which means "small." In the 19th and early 20th century, the name spread throughout Europe, especially Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and other German speaking countries. The name is often seen in Jewish communities, as European Jews tended to adopt German names during this period.
In recent decades, Schmaltz has spread further, especially through immigration. In the United States, it is very common, and it is also found in other countries throughout the world. When immigrants bring the name to their new homes, the spelling will often change slightly or become anglicized. For example, some families may drop the "t," changing the spelling to "Schmalz," or substitute a different letter, such as changing it to "Schmaltzke."
Regardless of where and with what spelling the last name is found, most people with the name Schmaltz can trace their ancestry back to the German-speaking countries of Europe. It is likely that many people with the last name Schmaltz are from the same family, or at least from the same general geographical area.
Variations of the surname Schmaltz
The surname Schmaltz has many variant spellings and surnames of the same origin. It can be spelled as Schmalz, Schulz, Shmaltz, Shmalz, Schmalzit, Schmalzy, Shmaltzy, Schmaltzy, Shalzit, Shalzy, and Shaltsy.
The surname Schmaltz is German in origin and has various meanings including “grease, tallow, melting, and fats.” It is derived from the German word "schmalz, " meaning "animal fat." In Germany, the name originally would have been used to denote a producer or seller of animal fat and tallow. It also can mean comfort, protection, and prosperity. The surname is most common in countries like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
The variation Schmalz is the oldest known form of the surname Schmaltz and first appeared in the late middle ages around 1300AD in Germany. Schultz, Shmaltz, and Shmalz all appear in Germany in the 16th century. Schmalzit is derived from Schmalz and first appears in records at the end of the 16th century.
Shalzit, Shalzy, and Shaltsy are all derived from the Yiddish word for fat, “shalts”. Other derivatives such as Schmaltzy, Shmaltzy, and Schmalzy began to appear in records from the late 18th century onward.
Overall, Schmaltz is a very common German surname with many spellings and derivatives. It is still found throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other countries all around the world.
Famous people with the name Schmaltz
- Brett Schmaltz: Retired professional baseball player.
- Bruce Schmaltz: American businessman and philanthropist.
- Cheryl Schmaltz: Canadian entrepreneur and investor.
- Ernie Schmaltz: Olympic Silver Medalist in SBX Snowboarding.
- John Schmaltz: Former Major League Baseball pitcher.
- Raymond Schmaltz: American Actor, writer, and director.
- Rob Schmaltz: Musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer.
- Victoria Schmaltz: Retired professional tennis player.
- Keesa Schmaltz: American umpire and professional softball referee.
- Sydney Schmaltz: Professional actress, singer, and songwriter.