Surname Bankratz - Meaning and Origin

Bankratz: What does the surname Bankratz mean?

The last name Bankratz is of German origin and dates back to at least the mid-1400s. The name is thought to be derived from a combination of the words “bank” and “ratz” — meaning to rule. Therefore, the name Bankratz literally translates to “rule of the bank” and was likely used by someone in a position of financial authority in Germany.

In early Germany, the name Bankratz was mostly associated with those in banking, finance and wealth management sectors. They would have acted as advisers and managers who helped to control the kingdom’s money. They may even have been in charge of the region’s gold reserves. However, since the word “ratz” also carries connotations of money, it’s possible that the name could have belonged to wealthy landowners or other individuals who were thought to be especially rich.

The surname carries a noble history and may be linked to achievements, status and even wealth. For this reason, it’s no surprise that the name is still common in Germany. It’s also very popular among German immigrants and their descendants in Europe and North America, where it is still actively used today.

Bankratz: Where does the name Bankratz come from?

The last name Bankratz is believed to have originated in Germany, and is most common in Eastern Europe today. Specifically, it is most frequently found in countries such as Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland. In general, the noble families of the Austro-Hungarian Empire often chose the Bankratz family name.

Research indicates that the surname may be derived from the German term "banque," which was a term used to refer to a noble estate. The "ratz" component of the name may refer to an administrative court that was held within that estate, which was responsible for making certain decrees and regulations. In this case, "Bankratz" means a noble family that oversees the court.

It is possible that the Bankratz family name spread well beyond Eastern Europe, particularly to countries in North America with considerable German populations, such as the United States and Canada. However, Bankratz is still relatively rare outside of that region. The last name is most likely to appear in archives and other records related to Eastern European ancestors.

Variations of the surname Bankratz

The surname Bankratz is believed to have been derived from the German language. It is thought to have originated as either a variant spelling of Bankhard, or the diminutive spelling of Bonkhard, or Bönkhardt. Bankhard is a German toponymic surname derived from a place named “Bank” which means “ridge”. It is thought to have been borne by a family living near a ridge, or elevated piece of land.

The variants for Bankratz include, but are not limited to, Bankert, Balke, Bankar, Bancker, Bankard, and Bankerth. Bankert is the most common spelling variant of Bankratz found in Germany. On the other hand Balke is an occupational surname derived from the German word “balc” which means “smaller piece of land”. Bankar and Bankerth likely evolved from Bankhard and Bankert.

The surnames derived from the same origin include, but are not limited to, Bankhardt, Bankharder, Bankhardz, Bunke, Bunky, Bunkyer, Benkhart, Bancher, Banchertz, and Bankier. Bankhardt and Bankharder are the most common surnames derived from Bankratz. Bankhardz is a combination of Bankhard and Bankratz, and Bunke, Bunky, Bunkyer, Benkhart are diminutive forms of Bankhard. Bancher, Banchert and Bankier are thought to have descended from Bankratz’s original form.

Overall, the surname Bankratz has very few recorded variants and spellings. However, its derivatives are quite numerous and its etymology is something that has been debated for quite some time.

Famous people with the name Bankratz

• Stan Bankratz, known as the voice of radio host Casey Kasem.
• Jackie Bankratz, following in her father's footsteps as a radio host and host of the popular morning talk show, The Bankratz Breakfast.
• Paul Bankratz, a noted businessman and philanthropist who was regarded as one of the most powerful figures of the banking world.
• Kenny Bankratz, a Grammy-nominated music producer.
• Carl Bankratz, an acclaimed Broadway actor and producer.
• Joan Bankratz, an Emmy Award-winning television producer and writer.
• Katya Bankratz, a prominent fashion designer who has dressed celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Lady Gaga, and many others.
• Yolanda Bankratz, a respected environmental activist and former president of the National Resource Defense Council.
• Eddie Bankratz, a professional golfer and six-time winner of the PGA Tour.
• Mark Bankratz, a renowned neurologist and professor of neuroscience at Harvard Medical School.

Other surnames

Bankrath