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| Origins Available: |
| | Germany |
The ancient and distinguished German surname Cloete is derived from the old Germanic term "Klotz," meaning "awkward, clumsy." The name was most likely initially bestowed as a nickname, either on someone who was clumsy or in an ironic way on someone who was exceptionally graceful.
The surname Cloete was first found in Hessen, where the family was closely identified in the early period of history with the feudal society which would become prominent throughout Europe. The Cloetees would later emerge as an influential noble family, having many distinguished branches, and well known for their involvement in social, economic and political affairs. The earliest known bearer of the name was Berchtolt Klotz, who is registered in the "Furstenbergisches Urkundenbuch" in 1343.
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Cloete research. Another 119 words (8 lines of text) covering the years 1606, 1668, 1738, 1764, 1771, 1773 and 1790 are included under the topic Early Cloete History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Spelling variations of this family name include: Klotz, Klottz, Klotzz, Klots, Klotze, Klotzes, Klottze, Klottzz, Klutz, Clotz, Cloete and many more.
Another 32 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Cloete Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
In South Africa, the name Cloete is the 92nd most popular surname with an estimated 52,974 people with that name. 1