Schleif History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

Etymology of Schleif

What does the name Schleif mean?

The name is derived from the German word "schleifen," meaning "to grind" or "polish," and is almost certainly occupational in origin, meaning that the name came from the profession of its first bearer. Most likely, the name's first bearer was one who polished swords and armor for a living, though it is also possible that he ground diamonds.

Early Origins of the Schleif family

The surname Schleif was first found in Germany, where the name Schleif came from humble beginnings but gained a significant reputation for its contribution to the emerging mediaeval society. It later became more prominent as numerous branches of the same house acquired distant estates, some of which were located in other countries. Through the acquisition of these estates as well as their important contributions to society, the family successfully elevated their social status.

Early History of the Schleif family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Schleif research. Another 67 words (5 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Schleif History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Schleif Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Schleiffer, Schleifer, Schleif, Schleifmann and many more.

Early Notables of the Schleif family

the Schleifer family of Germany

Schleif migration to the United States +

Schleif Settlers in United States in the 18th Century

Diedrich Schleif, who arrived in New York, NY in 1782 1

Schleif Settlers in United States in the 19th Century

Gesina Schleif, who landed in America in 1844 1
Christian Schleif, who arrived in New York city in 1858 aboard the Albert

Sources +

Filby, P. William, Meyer, Mary K., Passenger and immigration lists index : a guide to published arrival records of about 500,000 passengers who came to the United States and Canada in the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries. 1982-1985 Cumulated Supplements in Four Volumes Detroit, Mich. : Gale Research Co., 1985, Print (ISBN 0-8103-1795-8)