Summary

The surname Kaufman is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word 'koufman', meaning 'merchant' or 'trader'. It has a rich history associated with the medieval trading guilds and the rise of commerce in the region.
There are
34844
Kaufmans in the USA
Kaufman is the
1007th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Kaufman

CharlieKaufman

Charlie Kaufman is an American screenwriter and filmmaker known for his highly original and surreal works, including 'Being John Malkovich,' 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,' and 'Synecdoche, New York.'

AndyKaufman

Andy Kaufman was an American comedian, actor, and performance artist known for his unique style and eccentric performances. He is best known for his role as Latka Gravas on the sitcom 'Taxi' and his enigmatic wrestling persona.

EphraimKaufman

Ephraim Kaufman was an American journalist and politician who served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio. He played a significant role in advocating for the rights of Eastern European Jews.

PhilipKaufman

Philip Kaufman is an American film director and screenwriter known for his works such as 'The Right Stuff,' 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being,' and 'Henry & June.' He is recognized for his versatile storytelling and exploration of various genres.

LevKaufman

Lev Kaufman was a Russian novelist and playwright known for his works that explore the themes of love, identity, and the human condition. His notable works include 'Anna Karenina' and 'War and Peace.'

YakovKaufman

Yakov Kaufman was a Ukrainian-born American painter known for his vivid and vibrant abstract art. His works are celebrated for their expressive use of color and form.

DanKaufman

Dan Kaufman is an American journalist and author known for his book 'The Fall of Wisconsin: The Conservative Conquest of a Progressive Bastion and the Future of American Politics.' He has extensively covered political and social issues.

MilaKunis

Mila Kunis is an American actress known for her roles in popular films such as 'Black Swan' and 'Friends with Benefits.' She was born Milena Markovna Kunis and later changed her name to Mila Kunis.

LloydKaufman

Lloyd Kaufman is an American film director, producer, and screenwriter known for his work in the independent film industry. He co-founded Troma Entertainment and is responsible for cult films like 'The Toxic Avenger' and 'Tromeo and Juliet.'

ShlomoKaufman

Shlomo Kaufman is a Jewish scholar and rabbi known for his expertise in Jewish law and ethics. He has written numerous books and articles on various topics related to Judaism.

Kaufman Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Kaufman' is of German and Jewish origin. It is an occupational name derived from the German word 'kaufmann,' which means 'merchant' or 'trader.' The name signifies someone involved in commerce or trade.
Geographic DistributionThe name 'Kaufman' is most commonly found in Germany, the United States, Israel, Canada, Russia, and Argentina, reflecting the historical migration and settlement of Jewish communities.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Kaufman' include 'Kaufmann,' 'Kauffman,' 'Kauffmann,' 'Koffman,' 'Coffman,' 'Koffmann,' 'Kofman,' and 'Kofmann.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Kaufman' has been carried by Jewish immigrants to various countries, especially during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to factors such as persecution, economic opportunities, and religious freedom.