Surname Adolfs - Meaning and Origin
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Adolfs: What does the surname Adolfs mean?
The surname Adolfs is a patronymic name derived from the given name Adolf, which is a masculine form of Adolph or Adolphus. The name is derived from a Germanic element “Adal” meaning noble, and “wolf” meaning wolf. It is thought to have originated in the ancient Germanic language and was later adapted to German and Dutch. Adolfs suggests one of strength, courage and nobility, making it a fitting name for many who come from Germanic ancestry.
The popularity of the name Adolfs over time has varied. During the 19th century, after the Napoleonic era, it was very popular in most parts of Europe, particularly in German-speaking countries like Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Despite this level of popularity, the name remained relatively uncommon in the US until the second half of the 20th century when it become increasingly prevalent.
Historically, Adolfs has been closely associated with Germanic heritage and was given to a range of individuals including kings, high-ranking officials, and prominent figures. In many parts of Europe it is still a very common name, particularly among German-speaking communities.
The name Adolfs is a strong reminder of family lineage and is an appropriate choice for many of those who are proud to have Germanic heritage. It is a beautiful and meaningful name which carries the strong promise of strength, courage, and boldness that one could be proud to pass on to their descendants.
Order DNA origin analysisAdolfs: Where does the name Adolfs come from?
Adolfs is a surname that is commonly found in countries such as Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, and Belgium. It is also relatively common in other European countries such as Austria, Switzerland, and France.
In Germany, Adolfs is the 10th most common last name, according to the 1990 Evling Study. This study shows that almost 2.2% of the population have the surname Adolfs. In Poland, the surname is also relatively popular, as it is ranked in the top 100.
Adolfs is most likely of German origin and could also be related to Old French and Old High German words for noble. The name Adolf, which is derived from the two words adal and wolf, also carries similar meaning of noble wolf.
Adolfs was also used as the patronymic name for the progeny of the first Adolf, as well as for those descended from the Adolf family. Today, the surname can be seen among members of the same family across the globe, as well as those who have adopted the name from elsewhere.
Variations of the surname Adolfs
Adolfs is a German surname derived from the given name Adolf, which is a German form of the Old High German "Adalwolf" or "Adalulf," meaning “noble wolf.” Variants of the surname Adolfs include Adolf, Adolph, Adoff, and Adolphe.
The Dutch spelling of the surname Adolfs is Adolffs or Adolphs, and the Danish and Norwegian variant is Adelv. The Polish variant is Adolfowski, while the French variant is Adolphe. There are also variants of the name in other languages such as Portuguese (Adolfo), Spanish (Adolfo), and Italian (Adolfo).
In the United States, some variant spellings and surnames of Adolfs are Adel, Adals, Adal, Adeliff, Adelph, Adלph, Adelle, and Adell. Some other surnames derived from the same origin include Adelphius, Adalwolf, Adalof, Adalfrid, and Adalhard. Some Dutch surnames associated with the Adolfs are Adband, Adelaer, and Adelbrecht.
The surname Adolfs is also found in some other European countries such as Finland, Belgium, and Hungary. In Finland, it is spelled Adalsti, while in Hungary, it is spelled as Adolff.
The given name Adolf was borne by a number of historic figures, though the name is no longer commonly used today. Some notable people bearing the name Adolfs include Adolfs Müller-Stör (Austrian biochemist and a Nobel Prize laureate), Adolfs Bļodka (Latvian soldier), and Adolfs Kalniņš (Latvian composer).
Famous people with the name Adolfs
(1) Joseph Adolfs: was an American portrait painter well known for his lifelike paintings of prominent doctors and statesmen. (2) Heinz Adolfs: a field marshall in the World War II-era Wehrmacht. (3) Max Adolfs: an Austrian playwright and television producer. (4) Ernst Adolfs: a German military officer who served in the World War II. (5) Johannes Adolfs: a German socialist activist, lawyer and writer. (6) Karl Adolfs: a German diplomat and Ambassador to Poland before WWII. (7) Tonny Adolfs: a Dutch football manager and coach. (8) Frank Adolfs: a German businessman and financial director. (9) William Adolfs: a German sculptor active during the 20th century. (10) Helena Adolfs: a Swedish actress and screenwriter.