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| Origins Available: |
| | Germany |
There are a few possible derivations for the Zeis surname. In some instances, it may have evolved from the Middle High German word "zeisen" meaning "to pick," in which case it may have been an occupational name, or perhaps used figuratively as a nickname which later became a surname. Or, Zeis may come from the Middle High German word "zeiz" meaning "graceful, tender or gentle."
The surname Zeis was first found in Wuerttemberg, where the name was closely identified in early mediaeval 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. Chronicles first mention Konrad Zeisolf of Mannheim in 1307, Ebelin Zeizolf of the ancient imperial city of Worms in 1234, and there is a town in Wuerttemberg called Zeizolfswiler.
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Zeis research. Another 90 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1818, 1846 and 1888 are included under the topic Early Zeis History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Spelling variations of this family name include: Zeiss, Zeisse, Zeis, Zaiss, Zaisse, Zais, Zaissle, Zeissle, Zeissler, Zeissolf, Zeizolf, Zaiser, Zaisz, Zaisser, Zeiz and many more.
Notables with the surname Zeis during this period were