Surname Lengkeit - Meaning and Origin
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Lengkeit: What does the surname Lengkeit mean?
The last name Lengkeit (also spelled Langekiet) is a German surname derived from the Middle High German word “lengkite” meaning “long face”. It is thought that this surname originated as a nickname for someone who was tall and had an elongated facial shape.
Though the exact origin of this name is unclear, it is believed to have been in use since the 16th century. By the 19th century, the Lengkeit name could be found in both Germany and the surrounding regions. Today, the Lengkeit family is most prevalent in Germany, the Netherlands, and some parts of the United States.
The traditional meanings of the name Lengkeit often signify a person of tall stature and a slim face. In some cultures, it may also signify an individual with wistful or melancholic demeanor.
People with the Lengkeit surname also often have an admiration for nature and enjoy spending time outdoors. Given the German roots of the name, many Lengkeits will also appreciate German culture. Finally, it is thought that those with the Lengkeit name are logical and have a sharp sense of justice.
Overall, the surname Lengkeit signifies strong German roots, a tall stature, an appreciation of nature, and a logical disposition. It is a unique and prestigious name that has endured for centuries—positioning those who bear the surname as part of a unique legacy.
Order DNA origin analysisLengkeit: Where does the name Lengkeit come from?
The surname Lengkeit is common throughout the German-speaking world, in particular, in countries such as Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. In Germany, it is particularly common in the northeast and Midwest. In Austria, it is mainly found in the western and southern parts of the country. Meanwhile, in Switzerland, it is most commonly found in the German-speaking regions.
In terms of origins, the name is derived from the modern German word "Lengk" or "LengRK", which can also be found in the older Sorbian language. It is thought to stem from "leng", meaning "long", with "keit" or "RK" representing a dialectical term for "piece". This refers to measuring land lengths.
The presence of the surname in Germany and countries where German is spoken has likely been around since at least the 8th century, during which time the family would have owned and occupied land. The Lengkeit surname remains prevalent today, with more than 3,500 people and over 500 families registered in Germany alone. It is also still one of the most common surnames in German-speaking areas of Europe.
Overall, the surname Lengkeit remains a fairly common one throughout German-speaking regions, both in traditional areas where it has been present for centuries and in modern times.
Variations of the surname Lengkeit
Lengkeit is a German surname with multiple variants and spellings, including Lengkait, Lengkeet, Lengkieht, Linkheit, Linkhite, and Lankheit. Names with similar origin include Lanchet, Lanckheit, Langkeit, Lankkeit, and Lengouth.
The origin of the Lengkeit surname is uncertain, but there are a few theories. Some believe it derives from the Middle High German word "lank," which describes someone or something that is long or tall. Others think the name may have originated from the Middle Low German word "lange," which means skinny, sparse, or scanty. Some even speculate that the name was derived from the Middle High German "lenga," which meant an elongated figure.
Regardless of its exact origin, it is clear that the Lengkeit surname and its various variants are derived from a common root. This is apparent in the numerous variations of the name, such as Linkhite and Linkheit, which have a similar phonetic structure and similar geographic distributions. This may be indicative of a common ancestor, who adopted various spellings of the name in different parts of Germany. The surname has been in existence since at least the 15th century, when it was found in various church records.
Today, the surname is still common in Germany, although it is not as widespread as it once was. Other countries where the last name is common include the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, due to the mass migration of German people during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Famous people with the name Lengkeit
- Dennis Lengkeit: German professional football player
- Friedemann Lengkeit: German actor
- Valerie Lengkeit: German film and television actress
- Franz Lengkeit: German politician
- Rudolf Lengkeit: German painter and sculptor
- Sören Lengkeit: German professional football player
- Stefan Lengkeit: German professional football player
- Andreas Lengkeit: German professional football player
- Tina Lengkeit: German professional race car driver
- Martin Lengkeit: German military officer and combat pilot