WALD

Topographic

Meaning

Forest, derived from the German word for woodland or forest area.

Etymology

The surname derives directly from the German word 'Wald' meaning forest or woodland. It originally indicated someone who lived near or worked in a forest.

About the WALD Surname

A common German topographic surname indicating residence near a forest or woodland area. The name has been documented in German records since medieval times.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 8,000 bearers in the United States #1,263 most common surname
Rare Common

Found throughout German-speaking regions with significant distribution in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

WALD Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the WALD Surname