Herr

Descriptive

Meaning

A man or gentleman, from the German word for 'mister' or 'lord'.

Etymology

Derived from Middle High German 'herr' meaning lord, master, or gentleman, which comes from Old High German 'herro'. The surname likely originated as a nickname for a man of authority or as an occupational descriptor.

About the Herr Surname

Herr is a German surname derived from a common title of respect, suggesting either a person of authority or a nickname. It reflects medieval German social hierarchy and forms of address.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 25,000 bearers in the United States #739 most common surname
Rare Common

Found primarily in Germany and German-speaking regions, with some presence in Switzerland and Austria.

Herr Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Herr Surname