Surname Diller - Meaning and Origin
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Diller: What does the surname Diller mean?
The surname Diller is of German origin and it is an occupational name for a day laborer or a brickmaker. The name is derived from the Middle High German word "diller," which means "day laborer." The term was specifically used to refer to a person who works for a day's wage. In some regions of Germany, the term "diller" also refers to a brickmaker or tile maker. Therefore, the surname Diller might also indicate that the name bearers' ancestors were engaged in the job of brick or tile making. Like many other surnames, the original meaning has lost its relevance over time and it's now predominantly used as a family name without any occupational connotations.
Order DNA origin analysisDiller: Where does the name Diller come from?
The surname Diller is of German origin. It is a topographic name that comes from the Middle High German term "diller," which translates to "a dill," a plant that was a commonly used herb in medieval times. This suggests that the ancestors who first adopted this name were herb growers or traders by profession. Over time, families with this name migrated from Germany to different parts of the world, often due to political or economic factors.
Today, Diller is a common surname in both its homeland, Germany, and in the United States, reflecting a wave of German immigration to North America in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its distribution may also be relatively high in other countries with German immigrant populations, such as Canada and Australia. As with many surnames, however, its exact distribution can vary due to factors like intermarriage, name changes, and more.
Variations of the surname Diller
The surname Diller has a few variants and spellings that originate from the same root. They can be traced back to German, Swiss, or English heritage, and they typically denote a person who works as a 'digger' or 'builder.' Here are some:
1. Dillier: This variant is common in French-speaking regions but has the same Germanic roots.
2. Dieler: An alternative spelling that is less common but still recognizable.
3. Dillers: The plural form of Diller, sometimes used as a surname in areas of English influence.
4. Tiller: Though it sounds different, this is another variant. The root word is 'teil' in Old German, meaning 'a portion' or 'part', and 'tiller' means 'a divider' or 'apportioner.'
5. Dillerova and Dillerovic: Variants present in Slavic countries, typically denoting 'of Diller.'
Other spelling variations might include Dyller, Dillerer, Dillner, and Dilner. Some surnames that could potentially relate to the same occupation include Spade (another digging tool), and surname groups that relate to building or craftsmanship such as Mason, Smith, or Carpenter. It’s also worth considering that names and their variants can differ greatly due to regional dialects and historical spelling inconsistencies.
Famous people with the name Diller
- Phyllis Diller: An American actress and stand-up comedian, best known for her eccentric stage persona and self-deprecating humor.
- Barry Diller: A media executive responsible for the creation of Fox Broadcasting Company and USA Broadcasting. He's the founder of IAC and Expedia Group.
- Diane von Furstenberg (born Diane Simone Michelle Halfin): A Belgian fashion designer married to Barry Diller. Although she doesn't use the last name "Diller" professionally, she's recognized for her iconic wrap dress design.
- Suzzy Roche (born Susan Diller Roche): An American singer-songwriter, known for her work with the folk trio The Roches. She's the sister of Maggie and Terre Roche, and was married to Loudon Wainwright III.
- Diller Scofidio + Renfro: This isn't a person but a notable international architectural firm, originally founded by Elizabeth Diller and Ricardo Scofidio.
- Clara Diller: A silent movie actress in the early 20th century, best known for her performance in "Her Winning Way."
- Ryan Diller: A scriptwriter known for his work on the popular children's show, "Sesame Street."
- Eric Diller: An Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Toronto, known for his work on micro and nanorobotics.