REIF Origin of surname
REIF, REIFF
Surnames derive from one of many different origins. Sometimes there may be more than one explanation for the same name. This family name derives from an occupation (also connected with raw material, finished product or implements associated with that trade).
The German word Reif means "ripe/mature". As a Jewish family name, it could also be an abbreviation of Reifen, the German for "hoop". Interpreted as an occupational name, Reifen is sometimes associated with hoopers and wine and fish merchants because of the hoops on herring barrels and wine casks.
Yet another source of this Yiddish family name could be the Hebrew Rofe, that is a "physician". Moreover, Reifen could also be an abbreviation of Reifenberg, a locality in central Germany.
Distinguished bearers of the name Reif include the Galician poet, Abraham Reif (1802-1859) and the Hungarian educator and author, Jakab Reif (1844-1896).
Surnames derive from one of many different origins. Sometimes there may be more than one explanation for the same name. This family name derives from an occupation (also connected with raw material, finished product or implements associated with that trade).
The German word Reif means "ripe/mature". As a Jewish family name, it could also be an abbreviation of Reifen, the German for "hoop". Interpreted as an occupational name, Reifen is sometimes associated with hoopers and wine and fish merchants because of the hoops on herring barrels and wine casks.
Yet another source of this Yiddish family name could be the Hebrew Rofe, that is a "physician". Moreover, Reifen could also be an abbreviation of Reifenberg, a locality in central Germany.
Distinguished bearers of the name Reif include the Galician poet, Abraham Reif (1802-1859) and the Hungarian educator and author, Jakab Reif (1844-1896).