Surname Bolte - Meaning and Origin

Rewriting History and Identity: Personal Insights Gained from My iGENEA DNA Test

Running my hands through the illuminating pages of my ancestral history, churned up by my exhaustive iGENEA DNA test results, evoke a sense of brilliant awakening. It highlighted the fact that the seemingly ordinary family name, 'Bolte', carries an extraordinary, rich, globally-relevant narrative intrinsically connected to my DNA make-up itself.

V. Bolte

Bolte: What does the surname Bolte mean?

The surname Bolte is of German origin and it is primarily found in northern Germany. The name is derived from the Middle Low German word "bolte," meaning "arrow" or "bolt". Therefore, the name Bolte could indicate a person who either made or used arrows or bolts in some way, possibly referring to an archer or a maker of weaponry. Like many surnames, Bolte may have started out as a nickname or an occupational name before it became a hereditary surname. Surnames based on an occupation were quite common as they easily identified persons with their profession. However, the specific individual interpretation can vary as surnames were often adapted over many generations.

Bolte: Where does the name Bolte come from?

The surname Bolte is of German origin. It is derived from the Old German personal name "Bald", which means "bold or brave" and was historically given to a person who is exceptionally daring. The suffix "e" might signify "son of", indicating paternal lineage.

Today, this surname is found most frequently in Germany, but also has a significant presence in the United States, Australia, and France due to immigration over the centuries. Its highest concentration is recorded in Lower Saxony, a German state. Certain areas in Australia also have a notable number of individuals with the Bolte surname, particularly in the state of Victoria. In fact, one of the most prominent figures with this surname was Sir Henry Bolte, who served as the Premier of Victoria, Australia, from 1955 to 1972. Nonetheless, as a relatively rare surname, Bolte does not rank highly in prevalence in these countries or worldwide.

Variations of the surname Bolte

The surname Bolte can have different variants and spellings due to varying cultural influences and changes over time. Some possible variants include Bolt, Bolts, Boltz, Bolten, and Bolti. These variations often carry similar meanings, often connected to bolts of cloth or arrows, suggesting an occupational origin.

In addition, due to phonetic similarities, the surnames Bolt, Boulte, Boulton, Bulte, and Bulto may also be related. The names could have been further transformed when families emigrated, adapted to new languages, or sought to differentiate themselves, leading to more variations like Boltes, Boltte, or Boolt.

Dutch or German origin of this surname might be spelled as Bolten or Boltje. Some more rare or less common spellings include Bohlt, Boltte, and Boelte.

It's crucial to remember though, surname origin can be complex and these possible variations might not always apply. Always consider individual family history and country of origin when researching surname origins. In some cases, similar surnames might not relate at all, developing separately in different regions or from different root words.

Famous people with the name Bolte

• Charles Bolte: An American military officer who served in both World Wars and the Korean War. He was also the U.S. Army's Chief of Public Information.
• Sir Henry Bolte: The 38th Premier of Victoria, Australia, serving for a record 17 years between 1955 and 1972.
• Taylor Bolte: A notable actress known for her roles in "Sincerely, Brenda" (2018), "Enmity Gauge" (2018), and "Welcome to Grandville" (2016).
• Justin Bolte: A distinguished actor, popular for "Z Nation" (2014), "Shameless" (2011), and "Isn't it Romantic" (2019).
• Kyle Bolte: Known for his work on "The Genius of Lenny Breau" (1999), and "Town Talk" (2011).
• Bill Bolte: An American former professional baseball player.
• Brigitta Bolte: A German wheelchair curler, participated in multiple Paralympic games.
• Thorsten Bolte: Known for his works as a sound designer in the music and film industry.
• Charles H. Bolte is a famous artist known for his paintings.
• A. James Bolte is an esteemed professional in the field of engineering.
• Jason Bolte: A composer and sound artist in Montana.
• Zachary Bolte is an actor popular for his work in "Paranormal Witness" (2011).
• Douglas Bolte is a well-respected illustrator, especially famous in the realm of young adult literature.

Other surnames

BoltBöltBoltenBöltgeBoltingBöltingBöltinkBoltjeBöltjeBoltjesBöltkeBöltkenBöltlBoltonBoltresBoltzBöltzBoltzeBoltzel