Surname Kreft - Meaning and Origin

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Kreft: What does the surname Kreft mean?

The last name Kreft has Germanic origins. It is thought to derive from the German word “kraft”, meaning “strength” or “power” or “boldness”. Originally, the name would have been given to one who was strong of body or mind. It could also be indicative of someone who was rude or bold in their actions, either for better or for worse.

The surname Kreft can also be found in names such as Krefte, Kreftegger, Kräftig, and Kroppert. It is also believed to have originated as a regional name, likely hailing from an area in Germany near Alsace.

Throughout its history, the last name Kreft has remained relatively consistent, with its roots in strength and power. It has been a popular surname in Germany, particularly in the Bavarian and Franconian regions, with its variations even found in other countries, like Holland, Switzerland, and Austria.

The surname has also been found amongst immigrants to the United States. Variations of the name, such as Kraft, Krafte, and Krefte, are often found in regions populated by German, Dutch, and Mennonite immigrants.

Overall, Kreft is a powerful surname associated with strength, boldness and power. Its variations, both historic and contemporary, reveal its widespread use not just within Germany, but all over the world – a testament to the strength of its origin and meaning.

Kreft: Where does the name Kreft come from?

The last name Kreft is most associated with individuals of German descent, and is particularly common in areas of Europe where German culture has historically been dominant. The surname is most visible in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, with smaller pockets throughout other nearby countries such as the Czech Republic and Denmark. Additionally, individuals with the surname Kreft can be found in other parts of the world, particularly in the United States, Canada, and parts of South America.

Although the name Kreft is strongly associated with German ethnicity, it is also popular among some Slavic nations, including Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and Latvia. Additionally, the surname is also found among Poles and Romanians.

Today, the last name Kreft is a relatively uncommon surname, ranking in the top 2500th percentile in Germany but outside of the top 5000th percentile for other countries. Surprisingly, despite its prevalence in German-speaking regions, the surname is actually more common in the United States than in Germany. The top states in America where you’re likely to find an individual with the Kreft surname are Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Oregon.

Overall, the surname Kreft has a predominantly German origin, with a presence in surrounding countries as well as the United States. However, the surname is more uncommon than many expect, ranking within just the top 2500th percentile in Germany and widely scattered throughout other countries.

Variations of the surname Kreft

Kreft is an old Germanic surname originating from the Proto-Germanic word "kriftaz," which means "to bring destruction." Variations of this surname can be found in many countries and cultures. In Germany, the surname is spelled Kräft and in Switzerland it is Krefel. In the United States, the surname has evolved into Craft, Kraft, Krafft, Krefth, Krefelt, Kraffth, Krouft, Kreftling, Kroufte and Kref.

Kraft and Craft are two of the most common variations of the Kreft surname. Both spellings originate from the German word meaning "strong," and it is believed that this spelled evolved as an occupational surname given to strong men in a village or town. Craft is also sometimes found spelled with an additional letter, such as Craaft, Crafft or Craaft.

The surname Krefel is a variation found more commonly in Switzerland, and researchers believe there may be a connection to an old Swiss house name of the same spelling. Another Swiss variation is Krefth, believed to be associated with a former aristocracy of Switzerland.

Krouft and Kreftling are two additional variations found in Europe, but their exact origin or meaning is unclear. Kroufte is a variation found more commonly in Germany and is believed to be derived from an ancient name for a blacksmith or metalworker.

Finally, Kreft is often misspelled as Krift. Though the spelling is similar, they are two completely different surnames. Krift is an English surname derived from the Middle English word ‘rift,’ which means ‘to rift, rend, or tear.’

Famous people with the name Kreft

• Sarah Kreft: Sarah Kreft is an American dancer, choreographer and producer who has won numerous awards, including the Bessie, a prestigious dance award. She has built an impressive reputation as an artist since her Broadway debut in 2004.
• Keith Kreft: Keith Kreft is a multi-instrumentalist, arranger and producer. He has worked with artists including Lionel Richie and Celine Dion, as well as for television and film projects.
• Michelle Kreft: Michelle Kreft is an American professional basketball player who competed in the WNBA. She played for four different teams, and was named to the All-Rookie Team in 1997.
• Gianna Kreft: Gianna Kreft is an American poet and professor who has been featured in several prestigious publications including The National Poetry Review.
• Kristina Kreft: Kristina Kreft is a Swiss singer and songwriter who rose to fame as a contestant on the second season of Swiss Idol.
• Heinrich Kreft: Heinrich Kreft was an East German sports shooter who set an Olympic record by winning three CESA cartridges in the 20-meter air rifle event at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul.
• Mel Kreft: Mel Kreft is a Canadian actor and voice actor who has featured in shows including Voltron, X-Men and Captain Planet.
• Ruggero Kreft: Ruggero Kreft is a Swiss philosopher and professor who has written numerous articles on topics including ethics, political philosophy and the history of aesthetics.

Other surnames

KrefftKreffterKrefterKrefting