Klein Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Klein is a German surname meaning 'small' or 'little', derived from the Middle High German term 'klein'. It has evolved from Old High German to its modern form, retaining its meaning throughout the centuries. The name does not have biblical relevance but has maintained popularity since the medieval era, with several variants existing. It is currently perceived positively and is associated with various notable individuals.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Klein"
Pronunciation
/klaɪn/
Origin
German
Etymology
The surname Klein is derived from the Middle High German word 'klein', meaning 'small' or 'little'. It was often used as a nickname for a small person or someone of short stature.
Meaning
small, little
Language Evolution
Old High German: kliini, Middle High German: klein, Modern German: klein
Historical Usage
The surname Klein became popular in German-speaking regions during the medieval period and has remained common into modern times.
Variants & Derivatives
Kleiner, Kleinman, Kleinschmidt
Modern Popularity & Image
Klein is a well-known surname and is often associated with individuals in various professional fields, including arts, sciences, and business. It carries a neutral to positive connotation.
Famous People
Calvin Klein, American fashion designer, Klein Blue, a color named after artist Yves Klein, Ludwig Klein, German mathematician
📊 Klein Name Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Klein Name Visualizations
✨ Klein Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 25 peak births in 2013
Geographic Spread
Popular across 1 US states, with strongest presence in Texas
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 3 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Klein" - Complete Guide (3 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Klein". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 3 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Klein" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Klein"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Klein"
"Klein" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 8789th of 16616 | 46 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 8171st of 24088 | 124 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 5789th of 23106 | 183 |
Regional Popularity of "Klein" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - |
74.46% 5080th/6822 |
- |
Regional Popularity of "Klein" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity of "Klein"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Klein" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Klein" in the United States
The name Klein is most popular in Texas, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Generation Alpha generation in the South region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Klein has been stalled for male in South. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in South. Across generations, 'Klein' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 8789th out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 8171st out of 24088 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 5789th out of 23106 names. Discover how the name 'Klein' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.