Surname Wegrath - Meaning and Origin

Wegrath: What does the surname Wegrath mean?

The last name Wegrath is a German surname of occupational origin derived from the medieval profession of working with metal, specifically, as a smith or blacksmith. Wegrath likely came from the High German verb 'wegeren', which meant to ‘forge’ or ‘mold.’ Those with the last name Wegrath likely descended from a blacksmith, who was respected and valued for his profession and skills, as well as for his honesty and integrity.

The surnames Wegrath and its variants are most common in Germany, Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic, as well as in various parts of the western United States. Historically, the surname could originate from a specific region since blacksmiths served specific purposes in certain towns and cities. It is possible that families decided to take on the name Wegrath when settling in a new location.

Wegrath is a rare surname, but it has distinctive roots. The name was once associated with the proud and humble craft of blacksmithing, which is still highly respected today. In modern times, it is no surprise that those with the surname Wegrath may be praised for their integrity and commitment to their craft, and to the honest and noble work ethic that are associated with their ancestors.

Wegrath: Where does the name Wegrath come from?

The last name Wegrath is not especially common today. It is mainly found in the United States, particularly in the states of Pennsylvania and New York. New York had the highest number of Wegrath households in all the states reported in the last United States Census, with 841 reported households.

The Wegrath's found in almost all of the United States originally migrated from Germany and the Netherlands. It is commonly found among the descendants of European immigrants to the United States, and perhaps because of the solid affiliation with the Dutch it has seen success throughout the ages, with many members of this name achieving exceptional success in their respective industries and professions.

The majority of the Wegraths in the United States are directly descended from the original German and Dutch Wegraths who migrated to America hundreds of years ago. It is a name that is still present in the United States today, but it is likely more widespread throughout Germany, the Netherlands, and other surrounding countries.

Variations of the surname Wegrath

The variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin for the surname Wegrath are quite varied. The surname Wegrath is a patronymic name, which means that it is derived from the father’s given name. An example of this type of name is the Wegrath surname which is derived from the ancient Germanic name Viggrath or Wiggrath. This name evolved over time into the modern spelling form Wegrath. The variants of this surname include Wiggrath, Weygrath, Wuygrath, Weigraht, Weagre, Weagar, Wagar, Wayger, Weyer, Weyger, Weigrae, Weygrahe, Wigert, Wegger, Vegher, and Weigrath.

Surnames of a similar origin may also be found in other countries and cultures as well. In Scotland, the surname may be found primarily as Wegrath, Wegger, Wuygrath, or Wagar, while in England it is possible to encounter the spellings Weyger, Weygrath, or Weyrat. In France, the spellings Veagre, Weagre, or Weygrahe are most commonly encountered. In Poland, the surname is spelled as Weiger or Vegher, while in Austria, it is most often encountered as Weigrath.

This surname may also be found with other regional or cultural variations, depending on the country of origin. Despite spelling and language differences, all of these surnames are related and ultimately derive from the same Germanic patriarchy name.

Famous people with the name Wegrath

• Jeff Wegrath: a US-based actor who has played parts in dozen of films such as Ghostbusters, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Gremlins, and Tron.
• Lena Wegrath: an Austrian fashion designer who has dressed a plethora of glam celebrities such as Rihanna and Beyoncé.
• Axel Wegrath: a German renowned photographer whose work has often been featured on the cover of the prestigious Magazine Stern.
• Samantha Wegrath: a Canadian blogger and fashion connoisseur often referred to as the "it" girl of the fashion industry.
• Robert Wegrath: an American professor of mathematics at the University of Virginia and recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.
• Justin Wegrath: a French-born professional skydiver who holds four Guinness World Records for world-class performances and has been featured at the Eiffel Tower for a number of stunt performances.
• Sophie Wegrath: a world-renowned violinist who has played for some of the biggest orchestras in the world.
• Christian Wegrath: a prominent Swiss painter whose works are often referred to as an ongoing visual diary.
• Michael Wegrath: a beloved Austrian actor who has acted in dozens of theater plays, movies, and TV shows.
• Karl Wegrath: a well-known German musician who is often regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of his time.

Other surnames

Wegrad