Surname Scheeper - Meaning and Origin

Scheeper: What does the surname Scheeper mean?

The last name Scheeper has many historical meanings. Its earliest known origin is from the region of Cleves in Germany, where it was likely derived from the word “schiefer” which means sloping or inclined. This likely referred to a person who was known for their strong beginnings but had to work hard to reach the end.

The name also has connections to the Dutch language and was likely derived from the word “schapen”, which means to herd sheep. This likely referred to someone who had a profession of herding sheep. The name has also been found in various records in Holland and is also a recognizable word in Belgium.

The meaning of the surname Scheeper has morphed and evolved with the changing times. Scheeper is now sometimes used as a first name, or as an alternative spelling of the common first name, Shepperd, which has its own meaning, one who tends sheep.

The meaning of the last name Scheeper is likely varied and fluid throughout the many countries of which it has a presence. It is obvious that it is a name of hardworking individuals who need to put effort and attention towards their work but also suggests a person who follows through on an idea and has the necessary determination to see it succeed.

Scheeper: Where does the name Scheeper come from?

The last name Scheeper is common mainly in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands today. The earliest records of the surname appear in the Netherlands where it is native and is believed to be derived from the Old Dutch "scheperen" meaning "to shepherd". This would indicate that the surname originally belonged to shepherds or people in the shepherding profession.

Most people with the last name Scheeper have Dutch, British, or American ancestry, and are descended from Dutch immigrants who arrived in the United States in the 1700s. Since then, the Scheeper family has spread to the UK, Europe, Australia, and the United States.

The census reveals that there are more individuals with the last name in the UK compared to the United States. Most of the individuals are located in the Midlands and the South East of England, as well as Scotland and Wales. In the United States, Scheeper's are scattered across the country, but there is a large concentration in the upper Midwestern states such as Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, where Dutch settlements were made in the 19th Century.

The Scheeper name is continuing to spread across the world, and with the growth of the internet it can be tracked on social media sites, family history forums, and other genealogy websites. It is an interesting and unique last name, and still quite common despite having its roots in the 17th century.

Variations of the surname Scheeper

The surname Scheeper is an occupational surname that is derived from the Dutch word 'schipper', meaning 'shipman'. The spelling of the surname Scheeper is typically found in the Netherlands and Germany. Variations of the surname Scheeper, also including other spellings and surnames of the same origin, include the variants Schipper, Schipper and Schuijper, all deriving from the Dutch word 'schipper'. In Germany, variations such as Schipper and Schiefer are used, both versions arising from the Low German form of 'schipper'.

In addition, the surname Scheeper has also taken on alternative names and spellings in different regions of the world, owing to different dialects and recording methods employed by the census authorities. For instance, the United States has developed the surnames Scheifer and Schepiak, while variants such as Sheafer have been used in Scotland. In England, the surname Scheeper attracted variations such as Shipper and Schifman.

The surname Scheeper is also common in other European countries, such as France, where variants such as Chifflet and Chiflet are used. Throughout Europe, this surname is found in various spellings and forms, mainly due to differences in the understanding and pronunciation of the surname. The Dutch spelling 'Scheeper', however, remains the most popular form.

Famous people with the name Scheeper

• Johannes Scheeper: Former German footballer. He played as a left-back for Schalke 04 and the German national team.
• Alex Scheeper: YouTuber and vlogger from Germany. His videos mainly focus on gaming.
• Mandy Scheeper: Dutch fitness model and winner of the title “Miss Fitness 2020.”
• Henrica Scheeper: Dutch actress. She is best known for her roles in films such as “De avonden” and “De VS-maffia.”
• Maike Scheeper: German architect and president of the Deutscher Werkbund. She has exhibited her work at various art events.
• Chris Scheeper: Dutch singer and songwriter. He is part of the electronic group Third World Solution.
• Jimmy Scheeper: Louisiana-born professional poker player. He has won multiple events, including the 2005 National Championship.
• Willem Scheeper: Dutch theatre director and actor. He has appeared in various Dutch TV series.
• Maria Scheeper: Dutch swimmer. She is a three-time national and international medalist, specialising in butterfly and freestyle.
• Johannes Scheeper: German figure skater. He competed at the 1973 World Championships, coming in seventh place.

Other surnames

Scheepers