Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Kaufman

      Origin

      German

      Meaning

      Merchant or Trader

      Variations

      Kaufmann, Kaimana, Kaulana
      The surname Kaufman has German roots and translates to merchant or trader. It originates from the Middle High German word koufman, which combines elements indicating trade and commerce. This designation likely originated as an occupational surname for individuals engaged in the trading profession, which was vital to economic activities in medieval communities. Over time, the name has transcended its literal meaning, becoming a family name for countless individuals across various cultures.

      Historically, surnames in Germany began to develop in the late medieval period, and Kaufman is no exception. The prevalence of trading as a profession in growing urban centers during this time contributed to the widespread adoption of occupational surnames. Families bearing the name often engaged in commerce, reflecting their social status and economic contribution. Throughout history, individuals with the Kaufman surname have been prominent in various spheres, including trade, finance, and even politics, especially in regions with significant Jewish populations, where the name became particularly common among merchants.

      In contemporary society, the surname Kaufman remains prevalent, particularly in the United States and other countries with substantial Jewish diaspora communities. Many individuals with this surname are involved in diverse fields, ranging from business and academia to the arts and entertainment. Additionally, the name has been popularized in various forms of media, often appearing in literature and film, which has helped maintain its visibility and relevance in modern culture. Overall, Kaufman continues to be a name emblematic of trade, entrepreneurship, and cultural heritage.

      Based on our records...

      Kaufman

      Kaufman

      This is the most common surname associated with Kaufman.
      Hannah

      Hannah

      This is the most common name of those married to a Kaufman.
      Aaron

      Aaron

      This is the most common name for a child of a Kaufman.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1856 is when there were the most people born with the first name Kaufman.

      Explore the origins of another name.