Surname Wehrhan - Meaning and Origin

Wehrhan: What does the surname Wehrhan mean?

The last name Wehrhan is German in origin and has various potential meanings. It derives from the German word “Wehr” which means defense, protection, or security, and “Hahn” which means rooster. This implies a meaning of “protective rooster” or possibly “Knight of the Rooster”, in reference to a person who acts as a protector of his fellows.

As a surname, Wehrhan likely originated as an occupational name, typically for a person who acted as a watcher or did many security related duties. By the late Middle Ages, it was likely used in its modern sense as simply a surname. It may also have been associated with those who worked in a more mundane fashion, such as caretakers or blacksmiths, as well as warriors and protectors.

The coat of arms associated with the Wehrhan family is a black rooster on a silver background, with an upright sword in the center. This is likely in reference to its original meaning, with the rooster representing security, protection, and vigilance, and the sword symbolizing courage in battle. It is also a reminder of the loyalty and strength of those held by the family’s motto: “Loyalty and courage, even unto death.”

Wehrhan is a respectable family name with a long history and deep meaning associated with it. It represents the courage and loyalty of its family members, and serves as a reminder to work diligently for the safety and protection of those whom they serve.

Wehrhan: Where does the name Wehrhan come from?

Wehrhan is a German surname that is still common in Germany today. Historically, the name first appeared in numerous documents in East Prussia around the 14th century. The name is derived from the German word ‘ware’, meaning “guard” or “watchman”.

Wehrhan families originated mainly in East Prussia and Upper Silesia, located in present-day northeastern Poland, but have dispersed into other parts of Germany over time. Today, the name is most common in the states of Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein in Northwest Germany.

Due to increased migration and immigration, Wehrhan families can be seen in many different parts of the world today, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Historically, Wehrhan families were mainly Protestant Lutherans; however, over time, these families have slowly converted to a variety of religions.

Families with the Wehrhan name remain proud of their German heritage and are proud to talk about their fascinating ancestry. The surname Wehrhan continues to be a popular name among families in Germany today and around the world.

Variations of the surname Wehrhan

Wehrhan is a German surname which originates from Middle High German meaning “defender” or “guard”. It is typically found in records from the Middle Ages, when citizens, most often soldiers, were required to have a family name to distinguish them from others. Common spellings of the Wehrhan surname include: Wehrhahn, Wehrhammer, Werhan, Werhane, Werhaner, Werhann, Werhane, Wehrman, Weirhan, Wierhan, and Wierhane.

Variations of the Wehrhan surname are also found outside of Germany. In France, similar spellings are seen, including: Verhan, Verhann, Verhane, Wermhann, Wermlann, and Verlann. In the United States, slight alterations of the Wehrhan surname have also been found, such as Wergen, Wehrgen, Werigon, Weryigin, and Warhagin.

The Wehrhan surname has also been found as a Jewish surname originating in Germany, particularly with families living in Frankfurt/Main and Mannheim. In this scenario, the surname is most commonly spelled Werhan, Werhane, Werhann, Werhn, Wierhan and Wierhane.

Throughout the centuries, the Wehrhan surname has evolved and found its way to different corners of the globe. As family members move around, often taking the name with them, new spellings and variations can be found, even as recently as today.

Famous people with the name Wehrhan

• Alexander Wehrhan: a German professional footballer who currently plays for SV Wehen Wiesbaden.
• Johann Wehrhan: an artist from Luxembourg who was part of the movement modern impressionism.
• Bert Wehrhan: former NFL player for the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
• Dan Wehran: professional ice hockey player for the American Hockey League’s Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
• Matt Wehrhan: Professional Baseball Player in the Chicago White Sox Organisation.
• Thomas Wehran: Writer, Entrepreneur and Founder of the Real Estate App 2343 Oak Circle.
• Margret Wehrhan– Austrian Psychotherapist and Wellness Expert.
• Robert Wehrhan: German Entrepreneur and Founder of W&S Holding.
• Barbara Wehrhan: Award winning German Physician working in plastic surgery.
• Paul Wehrhan: Award winning American chef, restaurateur and author of several cookbooks.
• Ruth Wehran: German Female Singer and songwriter.
• Helen Wehran: Professional Lacrosse Player for the Atlanta Blaze.
• Alexandria Wehran: Award-winning American artist known for her glass works.

Other surnames

Wehrhahn