Hoffman Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Hoffman come from? What does the surname Hoffman mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Hoffman and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Hoffmann, Goffman
Surname Hoffman Origin: What does the last name Hoffman mean?
The Hoffman surname has German origins, with its medieval meaning being "steward," indicating a role in managing another's property. Variations of the name include Hoffmann, Hofmann, Hofman, and Huffman, among others. Records show the surname appearing in England in the 15th century and gaining prominence in Germany in the 16th and 17th centuries. By the 18th century, the United States had the highest volume of Hoffman records, signaling a shift in distribution. Today, the surname is prevalent in the United States, as well as in countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Australia, and more, showcasing a widespread global presence.
YourRoots data further confirms the early presence of the Hoffman surname in countries such as England and Germany, with significant expansion across various regions by the 16th and 17th centuries. The surname's prevalence in the United States continued to grow, with records also indicating its existence in countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and beyond. The Hoffman surname carries a legacy of stewardship and property management, reflecting a rich historical background that has transcended borders and cultures over time.
Hoffman Last Name History: Where did the last name Hoffman come from?
Origin of Hoffman Surname: Where does the last name Hoffman originate from?
The earliest known instance of the Hoffman surname in the YourRoots database appears in records from England in the 15th century. This information is based only on the exact spelling of "Hoffman" as reflected in the YourRoots database and does not encompass other record sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Hoffman: What does the Hoffman surname history look like in the early days?
The Hoffman surname was initially detected in England in the 15th century, but the frequency of records increased significantly in Germany in the 16th and 17th centuries. By the 18th century, the United States had become the country with the highest volume of Hoffman records, indicating a significant shift in the distribution of the surname. YourRoots data also shows Hoffman family records appearing in other countries during these centuries, suggesting a global spread.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Hoffman surname today?
The frequency of Hoffman records grew extensively in the United States from the 16th to the 19th centuries, with the United States maintaining the highest volume of records into the 20th century. The Hoffman surname is prominent in the United States today. However, it is also found in numerous other countries around the globe. The YourRoots database shows records for the Hoffman surname in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Australia, South Africa, France, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, and Belgium, indicating a widespread global presence.
Explore Hoffman last name heritage and Hoffman surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Hoffman Surame?
Dustin Hoffman
Dustin Lee Hoffman (born Aug 8, 1937) is an American actor known for his versatile portrayals of antiheroes and emotionally vulnerable characters. He has won two Academy Awards and starred in iconic films like "Kramer vs. Kramer" and "Rain Man." Hoffman has also directed and voiced characters in popular animated films.
Jackie Hoffman
Jacqueline Laura Hoffman (born Nov 29, 1960) is an American actress, singer, and comedian known for her one-woman shows and roles in Broadway musicals like Hairspray and The Addams Family. She received Emmy and Critics' Choice nominations for her role in the miniseries Feud (2017).
Cecil Hoffman
Cecil Hoffmann (born July 11, 1962) is an American actress known for her roles on TV shows like L.A. Law and in movies like Stargate and Tombstone. She also appeared in ER and Picket Fences, showcasing her versatile talent in various genres.
Grace Hoffman
Grace "Goldie" Hoffman (Jan 14, 1921 - Jul 26, 2008) was an iconic American operatic mezzo-soprano known for her powerful performances in leading opera houses worldwide. From Wagner's Brangäne to Verdi's Azucena, her legacy in the opera world is timeless.
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