KRIEK
Kriek
The surname Kriek has Dutch origins and is believed to be of toponymic nature, derived from the Dutch word "kriek," meaning "cherry." It is thought to have started as a nickname for someone who lived near a cherry tree or orchard, or alternatively, it may have been an occupational name for a cherry farmer or seller.
Distribution and Origins
The surname Kriek is relatively rare in the United Kingdom, with most occurrences being found in areas with historical ties to Dutch settlements or trade. It is more commonly found in the Netherlands and South Africa, where Dutch influence has been significant.
Famous Bearers
Notable individuals bearing the surname Kriek include:
- Gerrie Kriek: A South African tennis player who reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals in 1981.
- Albie Kriek: A former South African cricketer who played for the national team in the 1980s.
Variants
Variants of the surname Kriek may include spelling variations such as Kreek or Kreik, depending on regional influences and dialectal differences.
References
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
- Kriek, D., & De Villiers, C. (2009). The Complete Book of South African Cricket. Penguin Random House South Africa.
There are approximately 63 people named Kriek in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Kriek.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Jacques
- Jan
- Jeffrey
- Martinus
- Rudolph
Female
- Helen
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.