Surname Ulmer - Meaning and Origin

Unearthing Ancient History: How My iGENEA DNA Test Shaped My Self-Understanding Through The Unexpected Celtic Connection

Following my iGENEA DNA test, I discovered an unexpected linkage to ancient Celtic lineage through my Ulmer forebears. This newfound connection has transformed my self-perception, deepened my association with various cultures, and engendered a stronger sense of identity.

E. Ulmer

Ulmer: What does the surname Ulmer mean?

The surname Ulmer is of German origin and is considered a topographic name for someone who lived near the town of Ulm, in southern Germany. The name Ulm itself is said to be derived from the Old High German term "ulma," meaning "elm," thus suggesting that the area was once populated with elm trees. Therefore, the surname Ulmer could possibly denote someone who was from the elmy place or someone living in or near Ulm. Like many surnames, Ulmer evolved over time, with variations such as Ulmann, Ullemann, and Ulm appearing in different regions and periods. The name spread across Europe and later to other continents through immigration, resulting in it being somewhat common in countries like the United States. Although the exact lineage of every individual with the last name can't be traced to Ulm, generally, it provides a connection to the geographical and cultural history of this German region.

Ulmer: Where does the name Ulmer come from?

The surname Ulmer is most commonly found today in German-speaking countries, such as Germany and Austria. It is also found in smaller populations in other Central and Eastern European countries, such as Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Russia. Spelling variations of this name include Ullmer, Ulmar, and Ullmar.

The largest concentration of people with the surname Ulmer is in Germany. Data from a study published in 2019 showed that it was especially prevalent in Bavaria, followed by the states of Hessen, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Baden-Wurttemberg.

In Austria, the name Ulmer is less common today, although it is still found in some areas. According to data from Architecture of Kinship, a study published in 2019, it is most common in Tyrol, Vorarlberg, and Upper Austria.

Outside of German-speaking Europe, the surname Ulmer can also be found in the United States, where people bearing this name trace their roots back to 19th century German immigrants.

In the United States, the surname Ulmer is widespread, appearing in every region of the country. It is particularly common in the states of Texas, California, and New York.

Variations of the surname Ulmer

The surname Ulmer is derived from the old German word "Ulman" meaning "man of unknown origin". Variants of this surname include Ullman, Ullmann, Uhlmann, Uhlman, Uelman, Ulmen, Ulmon, Ullmer, and Uelman.

Other spellings include Ullmair, Ullomar and Ullmer, as well as Elijah and Wilhelm, which are also variants but are not necessarily related to the surname Ulmer.

The surname Ulmer can also be found in various other languages and cultures. In Dutch, it is spelled as Uilmer, Ullom and Uleman. In Lithuanian, it can be spelled as Ulmiene, Ullme, Ullmene and Ullmine. In Polish, it is spelled as Ullme, Ullmare, Ullmine, Ullmuiks and Ullman.

The surname Ulmer also has many different derived surnames. Ulmeyer and Ulery are two of the most common derived surnames, and both derive from the German Ulman. In Ireland, the surname is derived from the name Eulau, and is also spelled as Euler, Elmore and Elmer. In Russia, the surname derives from the name Ulma and is spelled as Ulamin and Ulmienko. In Spain and Portugal the surname is derived from the name Ulderico and is spelled Uderigo or Uledrigo.

Lastly, the surname Ulmer has also been linked to certain nobility and royal families. It is said to have originated from the German Ulmann dynasty, which dates back to the 14th century. The British Royal family also has ties to the Ulmer surname, as members of the Royal family have been known to adopt the Ulmer name.

Famous people with the name Ulmer

• Edgar G. Ulmer: Edgar was a well-known Austrian-American film director known for his work on the noir thriller Detective Story and the cult classic The Man from Planet X.
• Lance Ulmer: Lance is a former professional ice hockey player who was part of the Calgary Flames and San Jose Sharks.
• Al Ulmer: Al was an American photographer known for his work on the American gun culture and his photographs of Hollywood celebrities.
• Missouri Ulmer: Missouri is an actress who has appeared in shows such as Even Stevens, NCIS, and Grey’s Anatomy.
• Christian Ulmer: Christian is a photographer and art director based in Los Angeles who currently works for brands and advertising agencies.
• David Ulmer: David is an American record producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose credits include working with artists such as Lil Wayne, The Weeknd, and Lady Gaga.
• Friedrich Ulmer: Friedrich was an Austrian-American historian and writer known for his research and writings in the field of German American heritage and biography.
• Walter Ulmer: Walter is a retired United States Army lieutenant general and currently serves as a senior advisor to the non-profit Strategic Art Solutions.
• Monnie Ulmer: Monnie is an American former professional basketball player who played three seasons in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
• Herbert Ulmer: Herbert is an Austrian Entrepreneur, corporate advisor and former chairman and CEO of Siemens.

Other surnames

UlmeierUlmenUlmersUlmeyer