Surname Knop - Meaning and Origin
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S. Knop
read moreKnop: What does the surname Knop mean?
The surname Knop is of German origin and is thought to be derived from the Middle High German term "knappe", which translates to 'boy' or 'servant.' It was usually given to individuals who served as assistants or servants. Another possibility is that it may have originally been an occupational name used by individuals who made or sold buttons, as "knop" or "knopf" means 'button' in German. Additionally, "Knop" could be a derivative of the Polish name "Knopik", meaning 'small button' or 'bud.' The exact historical origin and meaning may vary as surnames can be influenced by multiple factors such as occupation, geographical location, and lineage. Over time, the name has seen numerous variations in its spelling, such as Knopp, Knop, Knopf, and Knopik among others.
Order DNA origin analysisKnop: Where does the name Knop come from?
The surname Knop originates from Germany where it possibly evolved from the Middle High German word "knappe," meaning a "young squire" or "apprentice." This lends to the suggestion that the first holder of this name may have been someone who worked as a squire or was a member of a knight's household. Another possible origin of the surname is from "knop," an occupational name for a maker of buttons or a topographic name for someone who lived by a hilltop. "Knop" in old German can mean "button" or "bud."
As for its prevalence today, it is largely found in Germany, where it is ranked as the 1,448th most common surname, and also retains some prevalence in the United States. In the United States, it is most common in Wisconsin, followed by Minnesota and North Dakota, presumably due to the historical German immigration to these states. Other countries where the name can be found, though less frequently, include Sweden, England, and Canada. It must be noted that even in countries where it's most common, it's still not a widespread surname.
Variations of the surname Knop
The surname Knop can be of German, Dutch, or English origin. Variants of this surname largely depend on the country and language context.
In German, its primary variant is Knoop, but Knopf, Knopp, and Knope are also common. These surnames generally refer to a button maker. A related occupational surname is Knipper, which may also have evolved into Knop or Knoop in certain regions.
Another variant from Germany and the Netherlands is Knupp, which could describe a 'knob' or 'lump'. Dutch alternatives include Knoppen and Knoppert.
In the English context, Knapp is the more common variant, taking its root from the Old English word for hilltop. Knop might also be linked to "Knapton", a geographic surname from various English locations.
There may also be Jewish Ashkenazic versions, such as Knopf or Knopfler, with similar occupational origins in 'button maker'. Slavic versions, like Knoop or Knopov, could be influenced by Yiddish or Polish, where 'knop' means 'bud' or 'knob'.
In conclusion, common variations include Knoop, Knopf, Knopp, Knope, Knupp, Knoppen, Knoppert, and Knapp among others. Always remember regional dialects, transliterations, and language evolutions can affect surname spelling and usage.
Famous people with the name Knop
- Missy Knop: Missy is an American synchronized swimmer who competed at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
- Hendrikus Knop: Hendrikus is a Dutch professional tennis player who has a career-high ATP singles ranking of 529 achieved on 13 May 2019.
- Eric Knop: Eric is a German actor, mostly known for his roles in the film series “Der Rosarote Panther”.
- Udo Knop: Udo is a German writer and entrepreneur who wrote children’s essays, anthologies, and dramas.
- Martin Knop: Martin is a Danish composer and conductor who has written musicals and operas for various production companies.
- Gans Knop: Gans is a Dutch composer who wrote many of the soundtracks for Dutch television series and films.
- Karl Knop: Karl is a German foreman and politician who served as a member of the Hesse legislature in the 1990s.
- Ole Knop: Ole is a Danish footballer who has played for clubs such as FC Copenhagen and Halmstads BK.
- Bjorn Knop: Bjorn is a Norwegian chess grandmaster and eight-time Norwegian Champion.
- Henrik Knop: Henrik is a Norwegian radio host, comedian, and actor who hosts the show Hver Mandag Mannen on NRK P2.