Engelsma Surname

Surnames hold a special significance in many cultures around the world. They often carry the weight of family history, tradition, and identity. One such surname with a rich and varied history is Engelsma. This surname has its origins in the Netherlands, but has since spread to other countries around the world. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Engelsma surname, its prevalence in different countries, and the meaning behind this unique and intriguing name.

Origins of the Engelsma Surname

The Engelsma surname is a Dutch surname that is derived from the personal name Engel, which means "angel" in Dutch. The suffix "ma" is a common suffix in Dutch surnames, denoting a patronymic or filial relationship. Therefore, Engelsma can be roughly translated to mean "son of Engel" or "descendant of Engel."

The use of patronymic surnames was common in the Netherlands and other Scandinavian countries during the Middle Ages. These surnames were often passed down from father to son, creating a link between generations and family lines. The Engelsma surname likely originated in this tradition, with early bearers of the name being the descendants of a man named Engel.

Prevalence of the Engelsma Surname

The Engelsma surname has a relatively low incidence in the Netherlands, with a total of 423 individuals bearing this surname in the country. This indicates that the Engelsma surname is not as common as some other Dutch surnames, but it still has a presence in Dutch society.

United States

In the United States, the Engelsma surname is also relatively uncommon, with a total of 203 individuals carrying this surname. However, the Engelsma surname has a strong presence in certain communities in the United States, particularly among Dutch-American families. These families often take pride in their Dutch heritage and may have passed down the Engelsma surname through multiple generations.

Belgium

In Belgium, the Engelsma surname is even rarer, with only 24 individuals bearing this name. This indicates that the Engelsma surname has a limited presence in Belgian society, with the majority of individuals with this surname likely being of Dutch descent.

Australia, England, Germany, Benin, Switzerland, New Zealand

The Engelsma surname has a very low incidence in other countries, such as Australia, England, Germany, Benin, Switzerland, and New Zealand. In these countries, there are only a small number of individuals with the Engelsma surname, indicating that the name may not be as widespread as in the Netherlands or the United States.

Meaning of the Engelsma Surname

Given that the Engelsma surname is derived from the personal name Engel, which means "angel" in Dutch, it is likely that the name carries connotations of spirituality or divine protection. The use of the suffix "ma" also implies a familial connection, suggesting that the Engelsma surname may have been used to denote a family's reverence for or connection to the divine.

Overall, the Engelsma surname is a unique and intriguing name with a rich history and cultural significance. While it may not be as common as some other surnames, the Engelsma name continues to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to their Dutch heritage and family history.

The surname Engelsma into the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is achievable to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same occurs when it comes to Engelsma, which as you are able to corroborate, it may be stated that it's a surname that can be present in all the nations for the world. In the same way there are countries by which truly the density of men and women with the surname Engelsma is more than far away.

The map for the Engelsma surname

1. Netherlands (423)
2. United States (203)
3. Belgium (24)
4. Australia (5)
5. England (4)
6. Germany (2)
7. Benin (1)
8. Switzerland (1)
9. New Zealand (1)