Surname Schminke - Meaning and Origin

Schminke: What does the surname Schminke mean?

The last name Schminke originates from German roots, most likely from the early Middle Ages. It is derived from the German word schminke, which means "paint" or "makeup." It likely referred to those who were employed in the manufacture of paints and other cosmetics. The name is most common in Germany and the United States, but it also can be found in parts of Canada, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

The meaning of Schminke can be interpreted in a few different ways. In some cases, it can imply a creative, artistic nature, as Schminke means "paint," and those associated with it likely had a knack for crafting and working with media like paint. It can also be interpreted as a sign of vanity, as those associated with the name were likely employed in fashion and beauty-related fields.

The Schminke surname is much less common today than it was many centuries ago, as people continue to come up with more varied ways to identify themselves. For those bearing the nametag today, it carries a sense of pride, indicating a connection to their distant ancestors and a reminder of where they come from. As the name fades into history, it is a reminder of the long, rich heritage of the people who once owned it and of those who choose to carry on its story.

Schminke: Where does the name Schminke come from?

The last name Schminke is primarily associated with Germany but is also common elsewhere in Europe, particularly in western and central European countries. In Germany, Schminke is the 293rd most common surname. It is most concentrated in Saxony, Thuringia, and Bavaria, as well as in the German speaking region of Belgium.

The name has spread further throughout Europe as a result of migration over the centuries. Schminke is relatively common in countries such as the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Austria. In the United States, it is more unusual but is still present in a number of states including Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Texas, and California.

Further afield, Schminke is also present in countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. In each of these countries it is relatively uncommon compared to other surnames, but it is still possible to find it in records or family trees.

Overall, the name Schminke is associated with German descent and is most common in Germany and its surrounding countries. Nonetheless, it can still be found in other Europeans countries, as well as in the US, Canada, and other English-speaking countries across the world.

Variations of the surname Schminke

The surnames Schminke, Schmink, Schminki, Schminken, Schminkes, Schminkel, Schminkel, and Schminkelen all stem from the same origin.

The surname Schminke has derived from the German word 'Schminken.' 'Schminken' is a verb that means to paint or adorn oneself with cosmetics. It is likely the surname started off as a nickname for someone who enjoyed using cosmetics frequently and it then evolved into a surname that was passed down from generation to generation.

Schminke is often spelt with one 'n' and is sometimes also spelt with an 'e', as 'Schminken'. This is because historically 'en' or 'n' was often used as a plural form in German, so some people used 'n' to create a plural form of the surname.

In some instances, the surname has also been spelt Schminkel and Schminkelen. This was likely due to the Germanic-spelling which was typical of names ending in -el or -en.

Variations of the surname Schminke can be found in Germany, The Netherlands, and some parts of Eastern Europe, however they are mainly concentrated in Germany and the Netherlands.

Famous people with the name Schminke

• Mark Schminke, American professional ice hockey player
• Marissa Schminke, American YouTuber and actress
• Kurt Schminke, German politician
• Victoria Schminke, German biathlete
• Tak Schminke, Dutch professional snooker player
• Cliff Schminke, American former NFL running back
• Hajo Schminke, German painter and sculptor
• Wolf-Thomas Schminke, German entrepreneur, known as the founder of PWB Group
• Frank Schminke, German football coach
• Antje Schminke, German fencer.

Other surnames

Schmincke