Elgersma Surname

The Origin and Spread of the Surname Elgersma

The surname Elgersma is a fascinating name with a rich history and diverse distribution around the world. This article will explore the origins of the surname, its meaning, and how it has spread to different countries over the centuries.

Origins and Meaning

The surname Elgersma is of Dutch origin, derived from the personal name 'Elias' or 'Elsje', which in turn comes from the Hebrew name 'Eliyahu', meaning 'my God is Yahweh'. The suffix '-sma' is a common suffix in Frisian surnames, indicating a place of origin or association. Therefore, Elgersma likely originated as a surname for someone from a place named Elgersma or with a connection to someone named Elias.

It is important to note that surnames were not fixed until the late Middle Ages, and many families only began using surnames as we know them today in the 16th and 17th centuries. Therefore, the surname Elgersma likely has ancient roots, but its specific usage as a hereditary surname may be more recent.

Distribution and Variants

According to data from various countries, the surname Elgersma is most common in the Netherlands, with an incidence of 729 individuals bearing the surname. This is not surprising given the Dutch origin of the name. The United States has the second-highest incidence of the surname, with 519 individuals, followed by Canada with 222, Thailand with 110, and Brazil with 59.

Other countries with smaller numbers of individuals bearing the surname Elgersma include Argentina, Germany, Norway, Australia, Switzerland, England, Belgium, Bulgaria, Bermuda, Spain, Georgia, Indonesia, Mexico, and Turkey. While the surname is not as common in these countries, its presence indicates the spread of the name beyond its Dutch origins.

Variant spellings of the surname Elgersma may exist due to factors such as transliteration, dialectal variations, or transcription errors. Some possible variants of the surname include Elgersman, Elgersmann, Elgersmon, and Elgersmun. These variants may reflect different historical spellings of the name or regional pronunciations.

Famous Individuals with the Surname Elgersma

While the surname Elgersma may not be as well-known as some other surnames, there are still notable individuals who bear this name. One such individual is Jan Elgersma, a Dutch footballer who played for clubs such as SC Cambuur and Vitesse Arnhem. Another notable Elgersma is Henk Elgersma, a Dutch painter known for his abstract art.

These individuals are just a few examples of the diverse talents and achievements of those with the surname Elgersma. As the surname continues to spread and evolve, it is likely that more individuals with this name will make their mark in various fields and industries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Elgersma is a unique and intriguing name with a Dutch origin and a widespread distribution around the world. Its etymology, meaning, and variants offer insights into the history and evolution of surnames in general. As more research is conducted and more individuals with the surname Elgersma are discovered, the story of this name will continue to unfold.

The surname Elgersma within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same happens in the case of Elgersma, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that may be found in all the countries of this globe. In the same way you will find nations in which certainly the thickness of individuals using the surname Elgersma is greater than in other countries.

The map associated with Elgersma surname

1. Netherlands (729)
2. United States (519)
3. Canada (222)
4. Thailand (110)
5. Brazil (59)
6. Argentina (25)
7. Germany (14)
8. Norway (8)
9. Australia (3)
10. Switzerland (2)
11. England (2)
12. Belgium (1)
13. Bulgaria (1)
14. Bermuda (1)
15. Spain (1)
16. Georgia (1)
17. Indonesia (1)
18. Mexico (1)
19. Turkey (1)