KOSSOFF
Kossoff
Origin Kossoff is a Jewish surname of Russian and Ukrainian origin. It is believed to have been derived from the Yiddish word "Kosher," meaning proper or appropriate.
History The Kossoff surname is thought to have originated in Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia and Ukraine, where Jewish communities resided for centuries. Many Jewish families adopted surnames in the 18th and 19th centuries as part of broader societal changes, and Kossoff is one such example.
Notable Individuals One of the most renowned bearers of the Kossoff surname is the British rock musician Paul Kossoff (1950–1976). Paul Kossoff was the lead guitarist of the band Free and is celebrated for his distinctive playing style and influential contributions to rock music.
Variants Variants of the Kossoff surname may include Koss, Koso, or Kozlov, reflecting the evolution of surnames over time and across regions.
Legacy The Kossoff surname carries with it a heritage of Jewish ancestry and cultural identity. Those bearing the name may feel a connection to the historical Jewish communities of Eastern Europe and the traditions they upheld. Additionally, the musical legacy of Paul Kossoff has ensured that the surname remains recognised in the realm of British rock history.
There are approximately 24 people named Kossoff in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Fewer than one in a million people in Britain are named Kossoff.