Summary

Neff is a surname of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word 'neve', which means 'nephew'. The surname Neff was likely initially used to differentiate someone who was a nephew, either by blood or by marriage. Over time, it evolved into a hereditary surname and spread across different regions. Today, individuals with the surname Neff can be found in various countries around the world.
There are
22764
Neffs in the USA
Neff is the
1577th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Neff

CarlNeff

Carl Neff was a German-born American violinist and conductor. He was known for his virtuosic performances and his leadership of the Philadelphia Orchestra as concertmaster.

JohnNeff

John Neff is an American investor and former portfolio manager at Vanguard Group. He is known for his successful value investing strategies and his management of the Windsor Fund.

KatherineNeff

Katherine Neff was an American artist and art educator. She was a prominent figure in the field of fiber art and textile design, known for her innovative techniques and use of color.

WilliamNeff

William Neff was an American politician and lawyer. He served as the mayor of Dayton, Ohio and was known for his efforts to improve the city's infrastructure and promote economic development.

BettyNeff

Betty Neff was an American actress and dancer. She had a successful career in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in films such as 'Gone with the Wind' and 'Casablanca.'

GeorgeNeff

George Neff was an American architect and urban planner. He was involved in the design and development of numerous buildings and neighborhoods in Chicago, including the Willis Tower.

ElizabethNeff

Elizabeth Neff was an American journalist and author. She worked for several major news organizations and wrote several acclaimed books on social and political issues.

HenryNeff

Henry Neff is an American author and illustrator. He is best known for his 'Tapestry' series of fantasy novels for young adults, which have gained a large and dedicated fan base.

AliceNeff

Alice Neff was an American sculptor. She was known for her abstract and figurative sculptures, which were often made from wood and stone.

FrankNeff

Frank Neff was an American businessman and philanthropist. He was the founder and CEO of a successful software company and was known for his generous support of various charitable causes.

Neff Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Neff' is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word 'neffe,' which means 'nephew' or 'descendant.' The name likely originated as a nickname for someone who was a nephew or a descendant of someone important or influential.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Neff' is most commonly found in Germany and the United States. In Germany, it is particularly common in the regions of Rhineland-Palatinate, Baden-Württemberg, and Bavaria. In the United States, it is most prevalent in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Neff' include 'Naef,' 'Naif,' and 'Nefe.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Neff' has been carried by German immigrants to various countries, including the United States, Canada, and Brazil. Many individuals with the surname 'Neff' emigrated from Germany in the 19th and early 20th centuries in search of economic and political opportunities.