Summary

FOSS is a surname that originated from Scandinavia. It is derived from the Old Norse word 'fóstr', which means 'foster' or 'rearing'. The name likely originally referred to someone who worked as a foster parent or had a nurturing role in the community. Over time, the name spread to different parts of the world through migration and settlement. Today, individuals with the surname FOSS can be found in various countries, but it is most commonly found in Norway, where it has remained popular for centuries.
There are
14094
Fosss in the USA
Foss is the
2563rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Foss

TimothyFoss

Timothy Foss is an American author known for his books on historical architecture and preservation.

LesterFoss

Lester Foss was an American politician who served as the Governor of North Dakota from 1933 to 1945.

KarenFoss

Karen Foss is an American television news anchor who was the co-anchor of the CBS Evening News from 1986 to 1991.

TravisFoss

Travis Foss is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League.

EvaFoss

Eva Foss was a Danish journalist and writer known for her work on women's rights and political activism.

GunnarFoss

Gunnar Foss was a Norwegian artist known for his paintings and sculptures depicting nature and landscapes.

SofieFoss

Sofie Foss is a Danish actress known for her roles in popular Danish films and television series.

AkselFoss

Aksel Foss is a Norwegian musician and composer known for his contributions to contemporary classical music.

BjarneFoss

Bjarne Foss was a Norwegian ski jumper who won multiple medals in international competitions during the 1960s.

GauteFoss

Gaute Foss is a Norwegian journalist and television presenter known for hosting popular talk shows and documentaries.

Foss Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Foss' is of Scandinavian origin and is derived from the Old Norse word 'fóss' meaning 'waterfall.' It is a topographic surname given to people who lived near or worked at a waterfall.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Foss' is most commonly found in Norway and Denmark, as well as among Scandinavian diaspora communities in the United States and Canada.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Foss' include 'Fosse' and 'Fos.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Foss' has been carried by immigrants from Norway and Denmark to countries like the United States and Canada, particularly during periods of Scandinavian migration in the 19th and early 20th centuries.