Surname Kauffunger - Meaning and Origin
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Kauffunger: What does the surname Kauffunger mean?
The last name Kauffunger is an occupational surname associated with the occupation of tanning leather. The term Kauffunger derives from the Middle High German term "kouffunger" or "kauffunger" which translates to mean "leather tanner". Tanning leather was an important occupation during the middle ages, used for producing items such as shoes, clothing, shield covers, weaponry, and book bindings. Tanners would soak field-dressed hide in large drums filled with a cocktail of chemicals to clean and harden it, then flatten it, scrape away any fat or flesh that were still attached, and then cure and colour it. The Kauffunger name was carried by those involved in the tanning industry including tanners, traders, and retailers.
The Kauffunger name is also associated with the historically German Jewish population. After 1618, when the German government issued regulations to prevent Jews from engaging in certain occupations, Jewish people were only permitted to engage in certain trades and crafts. Leather tanning was one of these trades allowed, and by the 18th century this had become the primary occupation of German Jews. By this time, the Kauffunger name had become associated with the Jewish community.
The Kauffunger name is still found today in Germany, and is a testament to the industrial and social history of the region.
Order DNA origin analysisKauffunger: Where does the name Kauffunger come from?
The surname Kauffunger is most common in Germany, specifically in the central regions of Hesse and Bavaria. It is also present in Austria, especially in the state of Lower Austria where it is particularly frequent. In the United States, the surname is found primarily in Pennsylvania, Illinois, New York, and California. It is likely derived from the Middle High German word ‘koufman’ which translates to ‘merchant’. This suggests that the surname likely originated as an occupational name for a travelling merchant.
Outside of German-speaking areas is where the surname appears less frequently. As the surname is mostly found in Germanic speaking countries, it is likely not as common in countries that do not speak Germanic languages. Although, it is possible some people with the last name Kauffunger emigrated to other regions of the world over the centuries.
The surname Kauffunger is relatively uncommon when compared to other surnames of German origin. However, this may not always have been the case as surnames were not in general use until the 16th century. Prior to this time many families used patronymics (names derived from the father's given name) instead. During the 16th century, a significant population increase saw the gradual adoption of fixed surnames as it improved record-keeping. As such, a small number of surnames dominated, while rarer surname such as Kauffunger became less popular.
Thus, although still relatively rare across the globe today, the surname Kauffunger can be traced to its Germanic roots and is most common in regions with strong Germanic ties.
Variations of the surname Kauffunger
Kauffunger is a surname of German origin, with variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin taking on various forms throughout its history.
Variants of Kauffunger include Kaffunger, Kauffenger, Kauffengier, Kauffenger, Kauffenberg, Kauffinder, and Kauffringer. Spellings of the name can include Kauffunger, Kaffunger, Cafunger, Kaffenger, Kauffenger, Kauffengier, Kauffenberg, Kauffinder and Kauffringer.
Surnames of the same origin include: Kaffafinger, Kauffinger, Kauffman, Kaule, Kauth, Kauffung, Kafffinger, Kaffinger, Kaffman, Kauth, and Kauffung.
Other related names in the region include: Kauter, Kaupf, Kauf, Kauff, Kaufmueller, Kafer, Kausch, and Kauscher.
Kauffunger is a unique and rare surname found throughout the German-speaking countries, indicating it is likely a relatively old name. While many of the variants, spellings, and surnames of the same have become rare over the years, it is possible that there are other similar names, variants, and spellings yet to be discovered.
Famous people with the name Kauffunger
- Robert Kauffunger: artist and glassmaker from Canada
- Karl Kauffunger: German entomologist
- Richard Kauffunger: American pathologist
- Melissa Kauffunger: Australian filmmaker
- Eva Kauffunger: German contralto opera singer
- Louise Kauffunger: Swedish track and field athlete
- Paul Kauffunger: Austrian painter
- Alfred Kauffunger: German composer
- Hope Kauffunger: American children's book author
- Sabrina Kauffunger: German actress