Surname Reeken - Meaning and Origin

Reeken: What does the surname Reeken mean?

The last name Reeken is thought to have derived from the German word "Recken," which roughly translates to the English word “warrior.” The term is believed to have been used to refer to a brave or powerful soldier who fought fiercely in battle; it was often applied to a noble knight who was especially adept in combat.

Originally, the last name Reeken was likely used to describe a particular person or family that had displayed their strength on the battlefield. In time, the Reeken family began to be recognized for their courage and bravery and the name eventually became well known throughout Europe. Over the centuries, Reekens have continued to carry on their family legacy of strength and valor.

In more modern times, the name Reeken has been used to signify strength and courage in a wide variety of contexts. The last name is still revered and respected to this day, and people who possess the name are proud to carry on the family legacy of honor and strength. As a result, Reekens are still highly respected and admired by many.

Reeken: Where does the name Reeken come from?

The last name Reeken is most commonly found in Northern Germany. It is also seen in the Netherlands, Flanders, and Silesia. Records of the name date back to at least the 1200s, where it was recorded in Cologne.

The frequency of the name Reeken varies within different regions. It is most common in North Rhine-Westphalia, followed by Lower Saxony and Hamburg. In North Rhine-Westphalia, the most populous state in Germany, the name is prevalent in the western region, particularly in the city of Cologne. Smaller pockets of Reeken’s can be found in other parts of Germany, including Bavaria, Baden-Wurttemburg, and Thuringia.

In the Netherlands, the name can be found in both Friesland and Overijssel. It is also present in the northeastern region, particularly in the Salland province. In the city of Antwerp, Belgium, records of the name date back to at least the 18th century. In Poland, the family is common in Silesia.

Reeken descendants still inhabit these regions, but the family has also spread to other parts of Europe, America, and Canada, particularly in the last 100 years. Today, Reeken's can be found living in countries as diverse as Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.

Variations of the surname Reeken

The surname Reeken has several variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin. These include Reekens, Reeker, Reekers, Reekison, Reeche, Reike, Reikes, Reichen, Reikers, Reickert, Reichius, Reikerte, Reichiers, Reichek, Reichert, Reichels, Reizman, Reisman, Reichman, Reichmann, Reyceman and Reichstein.

Reeken is a Dutch and German surname that originated from the Middle Dutch word "reeken", which means "to obtain or to receive". The surname is derived from an occupational term and referred to someone who was a treasurer or an overseer of funds and accounts. It was first found in the Dutch province of Overijssel and the German state of Schleswig-Holstein, and is derived from the smaller villages of Renken and Raaken.

Over time, the Reeken surname began to change its spelling and variants, likely due to factors such as immigration and marriage, which caused its spread to other parts of Europe. As the surname became more prominent, it also became more diversified and variations began to emerge. Some of these variations were the result of interpretations by local officials or even simple mistakes in an attempt to make it easier for the surname to be pronounced and remembered.

At present, Reeken is a common surname in many countries such as Holland, Germany, Belgium, the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Although the surname is widely used and pronounced differently in different countries, its meaning remains the same: to receive or obtain.

Famous people with the name Reeken

• Tobias Reeken: German politician, member of the Bundestag from 2013 to 2017.
• Gerald Reeking: British soldier, recipient of the Victoria Cross.
• Dieter Reeken: German politician, member of the Bundestag from 1994 to 2005.
• Vera Reeken: German actress, best known for her roles in films such as Little Thirteen and The White Ribbon.
• Vladimir Reeken: Russian bobsledder, silver medalist in the four-man in the 1972 Winter Olympics.
• Johannes Reeken: German professor of mathematics at Osnabrück University.
• Christian von Reeken: German artist, known for his illustrations and supporting illustrations.
• Johannes Reeken: Dutch publisher, founder of Utrecht-based publishing house Uitgeverij Jan Reeken NV.
• Marius Reeken: Dutch freestyle skier and 2006 Winter Olympic bronze medalist.
• Marius Reeken: Dutch composer and music producer, known for his contributions to several Dutch television programs.

Other surnames

ReekeReekerReekers