Surname Schwarter - Meaning and Origin
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Schwarter: What does the surname Schwarter mean?
The last name Schwarter is derived from the Germanic personal names Schwarte and Schwert. The name Schwarter is an occupational surname for a blacksmith, a maker of swords or other edged weapons. As a Germanic name it reflects the importance and strength of craftsmanship and weapons in the various cultures that it served as an indicator of one's occupation.
The name Schwarter evolved from the word ‘schwert’, which means sword in German, to the contemporary variant ‘schwarter’. German is an inflectional language, meaning the meaning and function of a word can change depending on the context it is used in. As an occupational surname for a blacksmith, the name would likely reflect the importance of the trade and of producing strong, quality weapons.
The name Schwarter is also a mainly used in the southern regions of Europe, such as the Alps. Here, certain surnames carrying certain meanings such as this one were more prevalent than in other areas of the country. The popularity of this surname became associated with those whose occupation revolved around working with metal and weapons, representing a strong family position and expertise in their trade.
In summary, the name Schwarter is derived from the Germanic personal name Schwarte and Schwert, translating roughly to "sword". The name has its origins in Germany and the south of Europe, and is an occupational surname used to indicate a blacksmith in the family. It is a reflection of the importance and strength of craftsmanship and weaponry found in many Germanic cultures.
Order DNA origin analysisSchwarter: Where does the name Schwarter come from?
The last name Schwarter is most common today in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, as well as other parts of Europe. In fact, it is the 44th most common surname in Germany. A few countries outside of Europe with notable populations include the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Schwarter surname likely originated in the Middle German region or Bavaria. It is derived from the Middle German words "schwart" and "schwarz" meaning "dusky" or "dark" and is most prominent in the Silesia region of Germany, in particular. It is believed that the name came about as a result of the dark color of a person's hair or skin, or even as a nickname.
In the United States, Schwarter is most common in New York and Pennsylvania, but can be found all over the nation. Census records show that in 1940, the Schwarter population in the United States was highest in Pennsylvania with 350 individuals. Since then, the number of Schwarter’s in the United States and abroad has steadily grown.
The number of Schwarter’s in Europe is particularly impressive, as many of them have taken on professions related to their last name. For example, there are several lineages where the surname evolved into professions such as blacksmiths, masons, or stonemasons; giving birth to the “Schwarzermacher” (blacksmith of Schwarters) and “Schwartzmaurer” (stonemason of Schwarters).
Overall, Schwarter is a common name in many countries around the world. Its origin and meaning are steeped in the history of the places it has been established in, and it still carries a great significance to many of its members.
Variations of the surname Schwarter
The Schwarter surname is derived from the German word 'Schwarz', which translates to 'black' in English. There are several variants and other spellings of the Schwarter surname, such as Schwärter, Schwertner, Schwerter, Schwartmann, and Schwartner.
Variations of the Schwarter surname can also be seen in other languages, such as in Dutch, where it becomes 'Schwartz', or in Czech, where it becomes 'Svárter' or 'Svorta'.
The surname Schwarter also has many different surnames that have derived from it, such as Swartzer, Schwarting, Schwarzinger, Schwartzentrup, Schwarzbauer, and Schwarzberg.
Other variations of the name include Schwabart, Schwabauer, Schwabental, Schwaderer, Schwartlander, Schwarmerer, and Schwarr.
The Schwarter name has also been combined with other surnames over the years, resulting in surnames such as Schwarzmueller, Schwarzkopf, Schartzenegger, and Schwarzkopf.
Despite its variations, the Schwarter surname has been traced back to several places in Germany and Austria, mainly in Bavaria and Vienna. This indicates that the Schwarter family likely has roots in both of these regions.
Famous people with the name Schwarter
- Lloyd Schwarter: A notable composer and producer who has worked on Broadway shows such as "Lion King”, “Miss Saigon” and “The Book of Mormon”.
- Ira Schwarter: A poet, playwright, and screenwriter, best known for his works “Boyhood,” “The Fog of War” and “Lone Star.”
- Adam Schwarter: A journalist, author, entertainer, and media expert, best known for being the creator of “Late Night With Adam Schwarter.”
- Amy Schwarter: An environmental activist, educator, and filmmaker who has won an Academy Award for her documentary “Plastic Paradise.”
- Sarah Schwarter: A popular singer and songwriter who gained fame for her unique blend of folk and jazz sounds.
- Barry Schwarter: A Broadway producer who is best known for his works “The Color Purple” and “Oliver!”
- Dan Schwarter: A concert promoter, actor, and nightclub owner who has organized events in New York City and Los Angeles.
- Phyllis Schwarter: An author, speaker and consultant who has written extensively on the subjects of self-empowerment and success.
- Richard Schwarter: A esteemed biomedical scientist who was awarded the National Medal of Science in 2008.
- Robert Schwarter: A professional ice hockey player who had a successful career with the NHL's Minnesota North Stars.