Summary

The surname Kaplan is of Turkish origin and is derived from the Turkish word 'kaplan', meaning 'tiger'. It is a common surname among Jewish communities as well. The origins of the surname can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire. Kaplan is a powerful and fierce surname symbolizing strength and courage.
There are
29582
Kaplans in the USA
Kaplan is the
1196th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Kaplan

MordecaiKaplan

Mordecai Kaplan was a rabbi, philosopher, and founder of the Reconstructionist Judaism movement. He sought to redefine Judaism for the modern world, emphasizing its ethical principles and downplaying the supernatural aspects of traditional Jewish belief.

ChaimKaplan

Chaim Kaplan was a Jewish writer and diarist during the Holocaust. He documented his experiences and observations while living in the Warsaw Ghetto, providing a firsthand account of the atrocities committed by the Nazis.

BaruchKaplan

Baruch Kaplan was an Israeli politician and member of the Knesset. He represented the National Religious Party and played an active role in Israeli politics, particularly in relation to religious affairs.

NaomiKaplan

Naomi Kaplan is an Israeli actress known for her performances in film and television. She has appeared in a range of Israeli productions and is widely recognized for her talent and versatility as an actress.

YakovKaplan

Yakov Kaplan was a Ukrainian-born Israeli chess Grandmaster. He achieved notable success in various chess tournaments and represented Israel in multiple Chess Olympiads.

AlKaplan

Al Kaplan is a composer and musician known for his work in the field of musical theater. He has composed music for several productions and has received critical acclaim for his innovative and expressive compositions.

ElaineKaplan

Elaine Kaplan is an American attorney and former United States Special Master. She has held various positions in the legal field, including serving as the Acting Director of the Office of Personnel Management.

JonathanKaplan

Jonathan Kaplan is a South African-born American film director. He has directed a range of films, including 'The Accused,' 'Unlawful Entry,' and 'Brokedown Palace.'

EstherKaplan

Esther Kaplan is a journalist and author known for her investigative reporting. She has covered a range of social and political issues and has published several books on topics such as labor rights and environmental activism.

SamuelKaplan

Samuel Kaplan is an American judge who served as a United States District Judge for the District of Minnesota. He was appointed by President Bill Clinton and served on the federal bench for over 20 years.

Kaplan Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Kaplan' is of Jewish origin and is common among Ashkenazi Jews. It is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word 'kohen,' meaning priest, possibly indicating a priestly lineage or association with the priesthood in Jewish history.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Kaplan' is commonly found among Jewish communities worldwide, particularly in Eastern Europe, Israel, and the United States. It is also present in other countries with significant Jewish populations.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Kaplan' include 'Caplan,' 'Kaplen,' and 'Kaplansky.' These variations may reflect regional or dialectal differences in the pronunciation or spelling of the name.
Migration and ImmigrationThe surname 'Kaplan' has been carried by Jewish immigrants who migrated from Eastern Europe to various countries, including the United States, Israel, Canada, and Argentina. Many of these immigrants sought refuge or better opportunities during challenging times, such as the Holocaust or periods of political unrest.