Moltke

Topographic

Meaning

Derived from a place name, possibly meaning 'soft place' or 'malt place'.

Etymology

Likely derived from a German or Danish place name with roots in Old Norse or Old German elements. The surname became associated with a prominent German-Danish noble family.

About the Moltke Surname

A German-Danish surname with aristocratic associations, particularly in Prussian military history. The name is strongly linked to the von Moltke family of prominent military strategists.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 5,000 bearers in the United States #1,656 most common surname
Rare Common

Primarily found in Germany and Denmark, particularly associated with Prussian and Danish nobility.

Notable Bearers

Helmuth von Moltke (Prussian military leader) various German and Danish noble families

People with the Moltke Surname

Carl Moltke

Count