Zenke History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

The name almost surely comes from the Middle High German word "zinke," meaning "a tip," or "point," but the reason that name was given is somewhat uncertain. There are three main possibilities and the most likely of these is that the name was given to someone who lived on a pointed piece of land, either a point of land by a body of water or a small, pointed hill. Another possibility is that is was a nickname for someone with a very pointy nose. The word "zinke" was also used for a cornet; so the name might have been given to someone who played that musical instrument.

Early Origins of the Zenke family

The surname Zenke was first found in Bavaria, where the name was closely identified in early medieval times with the feudal society which would become prominent throughout European history. The name would later emerge as a noble family with great influence, having many distinguished branches, and become noted for its involvement in social, economic and political affairs.

Early History of the Zenke family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Zenke research. Another 78 words (6 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Zenke History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Zenke Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Zink, Zinke, Zincke, Zingg, Sink, Sinke, Synk and others.

Early Notables of the Zenke family

More information is included under the topic Early Zenke Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Zenke family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Rudolf Zink, who arrived in New York in 1709 with his wife and four children; Julius Zinke, who came to Allegany County, Pennsylvania in 1854; and Anthony Zincke, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1752. There was also a Mr. Zink listed among German mercenaries in Quebec in 1776..

Contemporary Notables of the name Zenke (post 1700) +

Martin Zenke (b. 1953), German biochemist und cell biologist
Simon Terwase Zenke (b. 1988), Nigerian footballer