BURKHART

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Burkhart

Origin and Meaning

Burkhart is a surname of German origin, derived from the Old High German personal name "Burghard", which is composed of the elements "burg", meaning "fortress" or "castle", and "hard", meaning "brave" or "hardy". Over time, this name evolved into Burkhart and became a hereditary surname.

Distribution

The surname Burkhart is relatively rare in Britain, with most individuals bearing this name having German ancestry. It is more commonly found in German-speaking areas, such as Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

Notable Individuals

  • Herman Burkhart (1889-1958): Herman Burkhart was a German painter known for his expressionist style and depictions of rural life. His works are highly regarded for their vivid colours and emotional depth.

  • Ruth Burkhart (b. 1965): Ruth Burkhart is a Swiss politician and activist known for her work in environmental conservation. She has been a vocal advocate for sustainable practices and has served on various governmental committees related to environmental protection.

Variants

Variants of the surname Burkhart include Burkhardt, Burghard, and Burkert. These variations may reflect regional dialectal differences or anglicised versions of the original name.

Coat of Arms

The Burkhart family coat of arms typically features elements such as castles, towers, or warrior motifs, reflecting the meaning of the surname as brave or hardy.

Legacy

Though not as common in Britain as in German-speaking countries, the surname Burkhart carries with it a rich heritage and a connection to the ancient Germanic past. Families bearing this name often take pride in their history and the stories of the individuals who have borne it through the generations.

There are approximately 28 people named Burkhart in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Fewer than one in a million people in Britain are named Burkhart.

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Calvert
  • David
  • Gunner
  • John
  • Peter

Female

  • Barbara
  • Glenda

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.