Show ContentsLansky Surname History

Etymology of Lansky

What does the name Lansky mean?

The Lansky surname comes from the Polish root word "lawa," which means "bench." The term "lawnik," is to denote a town councillor or juror.

Early Origins of the Lansky family

The surname Lansky was first found in Polesie, the largest province of Poland. It is inhabited by Ruthenians, called Polesians, of Ukrainian descent. The main towns are those of Brest Litovsk, Pinsk, Kobryn, Kamenets, Litovsk, and Luninets. It was in this province that the renowned Radziwills and Sapiehas held their vast estates. The surname became noted for its many branches in the region, each house acquiring a status and influence which was envied by the princes of the region. In their later history the name became a power unto themselves and were elevated to the ranks of nobility as they grew into this most influential family.

Early History of the Lansky family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Lansky research. Another 88 words (6 lines of text) covering the year 1764 is included under the topic Early Lansky History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Lansky Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Lawniczak, Lawniczek, Lawnik, Lawecki and others.

Early Notables of the Lansky family

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

Migration of the Lansky family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Anton Lawnikowicz, who arrived at Baltimore on the " SS Hannover" on April 12, 1909; as well as Andrew Lanski who was naturalized in Detroit in 1930..


Contemporary Notables of the name Lansky (post 1700) +

  • Vicki Lansky (1942-2017), née Rogosin, an American author and publisher
  • Paul Lansky (b. 1944), American electronic-music or computer-music composer
  • Meyer Lansky (1902-1983), Polish American organized crime figure
  • Amy L. Lansky (b. 1955), American author, computer scientist, and homeopath


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