Surname Gross - Meaning and Origin

Discovering Roots and Resilience: A Journey of self-discovery with iGENEA unfolding the History of my Surname Gross

With iGENEA, I undertook an enlightening journey of familial self-discovery and delved deep into the history of my family name, Gross, tracing my lineage to Central Europe. Unfolding the chapters of my past through DNA analysis, I was rerooted to my ancestry, offering a palpable connection to history and a newfound understanding of my identity.

R. Gross

Gross: What does the surname Gross mean?

The last name Gross typically has German or Jewish origins and it means "large" or "big". In some instances, it could also mean "great". It may have been a name initially given to individuals who were physically big or tall, or who held a great status or importance in society. As such, it is classified as a descriptive or status surname, derived from the characteristics or societal position of the first person who used that name. It's important to note that surname meanings can vary based on geographical locations and as languages evolve over time.

Gross: Where does the name Gross come from?

The surname Gross is of Germanic origin, derived from the Middle High German term "groz," which means "big" or "great." It was often used as a nickname for someone who was physically large or for someone with a grand or imposing character or demeanor. In some instances, it may have been used ironically to describe a person of small stature. Today, this surname is commonly found in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and in places around the world with significant German-speaking populations, including the United States. Despite its origins, Gross is also a common Jewish surname, predominantly found among Ashkenazi Jews. It's important to note that in many Central and Eastern European languages including Czech, Polish, and Hungarian, "Gross" or similar variants also exist, but usually derive from different meanings or dialects, which results in the same or similar spellings to the German-derived surname.

Variations of the surname Gross

The surname Gross originates from the German word "gross" meaning "big" or "large," and was often used as a nickname for a large or tall person. Variants of the surname Gross may include: Grose, Grosser, Grosz, Gros, Grose, Grosse, and Groce. Additionally, the surname can also be found with a combination of other elements such as Grossmann (large man), Grossenberg (large mountain), or Grossfeld (large field).

The variants of the surname may also have geographical differences. For example, in Eastern European countries, the surname may be seen as Grosz or Gros. In French-speaking countries Gros might be used, while Spain or Italy may use the variant Grosso. In the Netherlands or Afrikaans speaking countries, the variant Groot could be used.

Additionally, different family lines may use modified spellings that have evolved over time or as a result of migration. Examples could include spellings like Grohs, Grouss, Gruss or even Kross. Although these surnames vary in their spelling, they may have originated from the same root word thus sharing a common origin.

Famous people with the name Gross

• Arye Gross: An American actor famous for roles in "Ellen" and "Minority Report".
• Terry Gross: American radio host of NPR's "Fresh Air".
• Michael Gross: Renowned actor from "Family Ties" and the "Tremors" films.
• Mary Gross: Comedian and actress from Saturday Night Live.
• Bill Gross: Famous financier and co-founder of investment firm PIMCO.
• Alan Gross: U.S. government contractor imprisoned in Cuba, later released.
• Dave Gross: Canadian business man and philanthropist.
• Glen Gross: Retired professional American football player.
• Paul Gross: Canadian actor, producer and director, known for his work in "Due South".
• John Gross: Noted British author, editor and literary critic.
• Lloyd Gross: Canadian politician.
• Stefan Gross: German professional footballer.
• Benedict Gross: American mathematician.
• Jessica Gross: American writer and editor.
• Samuel R. Gross: American professor of law.
• Richard Gross: British psychologist and author of psychology textbooks.
• Gross B. Gillespie: American artist and instructor.
• Leslie Gross: Australian politician.
• Melinda Gross: Television and film producer.
• Yitzhak Gross: Israeli politician.

Other surnames

GrosGroschoffGroschopGroschopfGroschoppGroschubGroschupGroschupfGroschupffGroschuppGroscurthGroseGroserGroshansGrosiusGrosjeanGrosjohannGrosklosGroskopfGroskopffGroskreutzGroskurtGroskurthGrosmannGrosmayerGrossbergGrossböltingGrosschmidGrosschmidtGrosscurth