Kolb Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kolb come from? What does the surname Kolb mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kolb and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Kolb Origin: What does the last name Kolb mean?
The surname Kolb originates from the Middle High German term "kolbe", which primarily means a mace or cudgel used as a weapon in medieval times. It can also be a house name, as evidenced by a house named Zum Kolben in Strasbourg. Records show the surname Kolb first appeared in Germany in the early 16th century and remained closely associated with the country until the 18th century. Over time, the surname spread globally, with significant concentrations in the United States, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and Brazil.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Kolb surname in various countries around the world, indicating its widespread distribution by the 20th century. The surname has a strong historical connection to Germany and has transcended borders to become prominent in countries like the United States. The global presence of the Kolb surname highlights its enduring legacy and widespread use across different regions and cultures.
Kolb Last Name History: Where did the last name Kolb come from?
Origin of Kolb Surname: Where does the last name Kolb originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Kolb first appeared in records from Germany around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Kolb spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Kolb: What does the Kolb surname history look like in the early days?
The Kolb surname remained closely associated with Germany from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Kolb family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kolb surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Kolb surname grew significantly in the United States. The Kolb surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and Brazil.
Explore Kolb last name heritage and Kolb surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kolb Surame?
Kevin Kolb
Kevin Benjamin Kolb (August 24, 1984 - ) is a former American professional football player known for his time as a quarterback in the NFL. Kolb played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Arizona Cardinals, and Buffalo Bills during his career. He had a successful college football career at the University of Houston, where he earned numerous accolades and set records. Despite facing some challenges with injuries during his time in the NFL, Kolb is remembered for his talent and contributions to the sport.
David A. Kolb
David Allen Kolb (December 12, 1939 - present) is an American educational theorist known for his work on experiential learning. He developed the Experiential Learning Model (ELM) and the Learning Style Inventory (LSI), which are widely used in management education. Kolb is the founder of Experience Based Learning Systems, LLC and has authored several books on organizational psychology and learning styles. He earned his BA from Knox College and his MA and Ph.D. from Harvard University. Kolb continues to be a prominent figure in the field of education and executive development.
Ophélia Kolb
Ophélia Kolb (born 1982) is a French actress known for her talent on stage and screen. She has been recognized for her performances, receiving nominations for the prestigious Molière Award. In 2019, she won the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Glass Menagerie. Kolb's work in theater and film showcases her versatility and dedication to her craft, earning her a place in the spotlight of the entertainment industry.
Clarence Kolb
Clarence William Kolb (July 31, 1874 – November 25, 1964) was an American vaudeville performer and actor known for his comedy routines in a Dutch dialect. Starting in vaudeville with partner Max Dill, he transitioned to films in the 1930s, appearing in over 75 movies. Kolb was famous for his roles as a flustered father in "Merrily We Live" (1938) and a corrupt mayor in "His Girl Friday" (1940). He also starred in the sitcom "My Little Margie" (1952) as Mr. Honeywell. Kolb's final movie appearance was in "Man of a Thousand Faces" (1957). He passed away at the age of 90.
Jon Kolb
Jon David Kolb (August 30, 1947 - ) is a former American professional football player known for his 13 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. Playing as an offensive tackle and center, Kolb won four Super Bowls with the Steelers in the 1970s. He was also a standout college player at Oklahoma State University, earning All-American honors in 1968. Kolb was not only a force on the football field but also a competitor in the World's Strongest Man contests, showcasing his exceptional strength and athleticism. After retiring, he continued his passion for strength and conditioning as a coach and founded a nonprofit organization to help veterans and first responders.
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