Surname Reckwardt - Meaning and Origin
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Reckwardt: What does the surname Reckwardt mean?
The last name Reckwardt is a German surname that is derived from the Middle High German word “rek”, meaning horse power or strength. It was a name given to someone who was strong and brave, or had great physical strength. In a more spiritual sense, Reckwardt is a reminder of the power within ourselves to conquer obstacles.
The surname Reckwardt is considered to be of ancient German origin, dating back to the 13th century when surnames began to appear throughout Europe. It is most prevalent in Germany, but can also be found in Scandinavian countries. In the United States, most of the bearers of the name Reckwardt are of German ancestry.
Reckwardt is most commonly translated as either “strong of power” or “reckless”. The origin of the name is believed to be rooted in strength, courage and power; offering a reminder to keep striving for what one desires and never give up.
In modern times, the last name Reckwardt is used to indicate pride and strength of character; traits that are essential in the challenging and unpredictable times of the 21st century. It is a reminder to not be so afraid of failure, but to be brave and resilient when things get difficult. It is a sign of resilience, determination and commitment.
Order DNA origin analysisReckwardt: Where does the name Reckwardt come from?
The last name Reckwardt is most common in Northern Europe, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands. It is a variant of the ancient and numerous Reck family, which originated in Germany in the Middle Ages. Most Reckwardts in Europe today are concentrated in the former East Prussia, but many have also migrated to other countries in Europe and around the world.
The Reichswald, or “Empire Forest”— a large area of woodlands that once formed the border between the German Empire and the Netherlands— is where the Reck family originated. The Reckwardt name is derived from this location and translates to ‘wood border guard’, which reflects the lengthy border protection duties held by the family several centuries ago.
It is likely that a number of Reckwardt families also settled in Belgium, France, and Poland when this area was part of the Kingdom of Prussia in the 19th century. Descendants of the first members of the Reckwardt family may also have migrated around Europe, to the United States, Canada, Australia, and elsewhere. Consequently, there may be Reckwardts today living in many parts of the world.
The Reckwardts who remain in Europe today are likely the descendants of the first members of the family who lived in Germany and the Netherlands. Their familial legacy and roots in the Reichswald are strong, but many of their descendants are scattered around the globe.
Variations of the surname Reckwardt
The Reckwardt surname has many different spellings and variants, including Reckewardt, Reckward, Resckeward, Reckewert, Reckewerts, Rekkerd, haReckewardt, Ruckwardt, Rukwardt, Recknerd, Reckewardh and Recknerdt.
Below are some of the common, Dutch-based variants of the surname Reckwardt:
Reckward: This variant of Reckwardt is the most popular and is often spelled with one “c” or two “c”s. It is thought to have originated from the Old Dutch personal name Reginward, meaning “careful guard.”
Resckeward: This variant of the name has German origins and is derived from the personal name Regin-ward, meaning “careful guard.”
Reckewert: This variant of Reckwardt is an Old German form of the name, derived from the Germanic personal name Riccawerth, meaning “king or ruler of the army.”
Rekkerd: This variant of the name is a Dutch topographic or habitation name and is thought to be derived from the Dutch word rekker, meaning “basket maker.”
haReckewardt: This variant of the name is a patronymic name, meaning “son of Rekkerd.” This variant is often seen with two “a’s” instead of one, making it spelled as haaReckewardt.
Ruckwardt: This variant of the name is derived from the Old German given name Ruchward, and means “powerful guardian.”
Rukwardt: This variant of the surname is derived from the Old German given name Ruchward, and means “powerful guardian.”
Recknerd: This variant of the name is thought to have Dutch origins and derives from the Dutch given name Reinert, which was derived from the personal name Reinhard, meaning “brave, strong and bold.”
Reckewardh: This variant of the name is derived from the Old German given name Reginward, and means “careful guard.”
Recknerdt: This variant of the name is a patronymic surname, and is thought to have German origins. It is derived from the given name Reinhard, and means “brave, strong and bold.”
Famous people with the name Reckwardt
- Eckhart Reckwardt: a German composer and conductor best known for the operas “The Flight to Egypt” and “The Mirror”.
- Gustav Reckwardt: a German painter best known for his portraits.
- Hugo Reckwardt: a German geologist and explorer best known for his early discoveries in India and the Middle East.
- Hilko Reckwardt: a German modern pentathlete who competed at the 1972 Summer Olympics.
- Louise Reckwardt: a German actress who appeared in films such as “Das Kriminalmuseum”, “Dragnet” and “Perfekt: Die Story.”
- Otto Reckwardt: a German geographer and professor at the University of Halle.
- Johannes Reckwardt: a German painter, illustrator and comic artist.
- Richard Reckwardt: a German politician and member of the Christian Democratic Union.
- Herman Reckwardt: a German sculptor who worked in the German art style Jugendstil.
- William Reckwardt: a German actor who appeared in films such as “The Mandalorian” and “Girl in the Port.”