Surname von Hoch - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'V'
von Hoch: What does the surname von Hoch mean?
The last name Von Hoch is a German noble surname originating from northern Germany. In German, the name is derived from the Old German "hoh" meaning "high" and "hohho" meaning "very high". This indicates that those with the surname Von Hoch were those of noble or elevated social status, and likely held titles of nobility during the Middle Ages.
The prefix "von" in German indicates nobility and signifies that the family is part of the nobility, having been granted a title at one point in their history. Von Hoch is therefore a mark of distinction, conveying a status of belonging to the upper echelons of society.
The surname von Hoch is still common among those of German descent today, carrying with it the traditional connotations of nobility and distinction. Families of the name von Hoch are known for their strong sense of heritage and tradition, which has been passed down through the generations.
Given the strong sense of identity that accompanies the von Hoch name, it is no surprise that members of this family feel proud of their history and continue to uphold their name and associated status within their community. The characteristics of being a von Hoch are deeply rooted in the strength of family ties and the values of honor, loyalty and obligation. These values continue to be held in high regard by those of the von Hoch surname.
Order DNA origin analysisvon Hoch: Where does the name von Hoch come from?
The von Hoch last name is primarily common in Germany today, particularly in the states of Bavaria, Saxony, and Thuringia. This surname originated from Upper Franconia and Middle Franconia, and was then adopted by many German families due to its popularity.
The von Hoch surname has been around since medieval times, beginning with the noble families in Franconia and Bavaria. The term "von" is a German prefix often used to denote nobility in names. The Von Hoch dynasty can be traced back to Albrecht von Hoch, who was born in 1298 in Bavaria. After Albrecht, the von Hochs moved their seat of power to the city of Obenhausen, which today sits on the border of Thuringia and Bavaria.
Generations of this family took part in many significant events in Germany's history, giving rise to the influential von Hoch name. Of note are the scientist Johannes von Hoch, as well as Maximilian von Hoch, a component member of the Third Reich.
Today there are still many Von Hochs living in Germany, though the population is much smaller than it once was. One source estimates approximately 2000 people living with the surname in Germany. Many of the Von Hochs have strong ties to their respective regions and remain proud of their family's heritage and ancestry.
Variations of the surname von Hoch
The surname von Hoch is an old German surname which originates from the South German area of Württemberg, Bavaria and Baden. It is a variation of the name Hoch, which is derived from an ancient word for 'high'. Variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin for von Hoch include:
- Hoch, Hoech, Höch, Hoech, Höh
- Hohe, Hoche, Boech
- Hocher, Haucke
- Haech, Hech
- Hoche, Hacke
- Hohm, Hoem, Om
- von Hoch, Vonhoch, Von Hoech, Von Höch, von Hohen
- Höck, Hoek, Hök
The variations in spelling are thought to have arisen from the varying regional dialects, pronunciation and scribes' records during the Middle Ages. The 'von' prefix is a nobiliary particle used to distinguish the family from others with the same name, and can be found in similar forms such as 'van' and 'de'. However, 'von' is now rarely used. The use of the prefix and its variants is a greater indicator of the family's history, as Hoch was a commonly found surname.
The family of von Hoch is most noted for its influential figures throughout the ages, spanning across the Middle Ages up to the present day. Members of the von Hoch family took part in religious reformations, led law enforcement and held leadership roles, both in official capacity in government and within the private sector.
Alternative spellings for von Hoch can be found throughout Germany and other European countries, with some members of the family having settled in places such as Austria and Hungary. It is also found in America, Brazil and Australia, where members of the German diaspora have settled in search of a new beginning or better opportunities abroad.
Famous people with the name von Hoch
- Prince August Wilhelm of Prussia (1906-1966)
- Countess Gesa von Hochberg-Falkenstein (1933-2016)
- Prince Friedrich Wilhelm of Prussia (1912-1994)
- Friedrich Franz von Hochberg (1832-1909)
- Prince Alexander of Prussia (1904-1958)
- Prince Gustav Adolf of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg (1936-2015)
- Prince Otto of Hesse and by Rhine (1838-1909)
- Prince Albrecht of Prussia (1912-2006)
- Prince Wilhelm of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach (1822-1903)
- Baron Hermann von Hoch, Lord of Guttel in Furstenberg (d. c.1535)