Surname Culp - Meaning and Origin

Uncovering the Historical Tapestry: A Journey Into My Culp Lineage Through the iGENEA DNA Test

The revelations obtained from my iGENEA DNA test offer a striking insight into my lineage's rich cultural and historical background. The test unveiled that my surname, 'Culp,' originates from Dutch, hints at an occupational origin, and establishes the historical presence of my ancestors in England and the United States.

I. Culp

Culp: What does the surname Culp mean?

The surname Culp is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "kolbe", which means club. It was originally a nickname used for a stout, heavy or muscular person. In some instances, it could have been an occupational name for a club-bearer or a soldier who wielded a club as against a sword. The surname was first found in Switzerland, where the Culp or Kolb families played an instrumental role in the local social, cultural, and political affairs. Over the years, many members of the family migrated to different countries and the surname evolved and adapted to the local languages and cultures. Today, people bearing the surname Culp can be found in several countries, primarily in Europe and North America. Notably, it’s used by the renowned actor Robert Culp and the famous novelist Dennis Culp.

Culp: Where does the name Culp come from?

The surname Culp is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German term "kolbe," which means a club, mace, or cudgel. This might suggest that the first person to bear this name might have been a person who made clubs or cudgels, or possibly derived from a nickname for a strong or tough person. This surname spread across Europe with the movement of people and was later anglicized in Britain. Variations of the name include Kolb, Kolbe, Kulp, and Kolp among others.

Today, while the surname Culp can be found globally due to migration and diaspora, it is most commonly found in the United States. This is likely due to substantial German immigration to the US in the 19th and 20th centuries. In the United States, it is particularly prevalent in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, where many German immigrants settled. However, it also retains a significant presence in Germany, where the name originated.

Variations of the surname Culp

The surname Culp has variations and may originate from multiple sources. Its variants based on spelling, ethnicity, and geographic distribution could include "Kulp," "Colp," "Kolp," "Kohl," "Culpe," "Khulp" and "Culpepper."

It's suggested that it is of German origin (for example, Kulp or Kolp), possibly a shortened form of "Kolb," meaning "pigeon," or "Kulp," meaning "calf." In certain areas, it may be of topographic origin from the Middle High German "kübel," meaning bucket or pail, referring to someone who made or used such containers.

The British surname 'Culpepper' could be a variant if Anglicized from Norman French origins.

Furthermore, the surname Culp could be a patronymic, originating from the personal name Ulb or Wolf, in which case alternative surnames could be "Ulb" or "Wolf."

Deciphering a surname’s exact origin and all potential variants can be challenging due to the influence of languages, societal changes, and geographic movements over many centuries.

Famous people with the name Culp

• Robert Culp: An American actor, screenwriter, and director, best known for his roles in the television series "I Spy" and "The Greatest American Hero."
• Harlan Jay Ellison: Also known under the pseudonym "Cordwainer Bird," Harlan Jay Ellison was a renowned American writer who wrote his most famous works in a variety of genres such as speculative fiction, mystery, and fantasy.
• Nancy Culp: She was an American actress, popular for her portrayal of Jane Hathaway in The Beverly Hillbillies, a popular television show in the 1960s.
• Arleigh Culp: Known as "Sonny," he is a retired professional baseball player. As a pitcher, he had a successful career in Major League Baseball (MLB).
• Franklin Culp: A former professional baseball player, he also served as a Major League Baseball player for several years.
• Ann Culp: An actress, known for Life in Emergency Ward 10 (1959) and No Hiding Place (1959).
• Jason Culp: An actor and director, known for playing Julian Jerome in the TV soap opera "General Hospital."
• Tom Culp: A professional American football player who had a successful career in the National Football League (NFL).

Other surnames

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