Surname Leiper - Meaning and Origin

Leiper: What does the surname Leiper mean?

The surname Leiper is of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English term "leper," which means a basket or basket-maker. Thus, it is an occupational surname and was likely initially bestowed upon individuals who were known to be basket makers by trade. Leiper, also spelled as Leaper or Leper, is more commonly found in East Scotland particularly in Aberdeen. Like many surnames, it likely started as a way to distinguish individuals with the same first name in a village or small community, providing information about their occupation, family relationships, or geographical origin. However, it should be noted that surname meanings can vary based on geographical origin and historical usage.

Leiper: Where does the name Leiper come from?

The surname Leiper is of Scottish origin. The roots of this name are connected to the profession of a Leper-keeper, derived from the Middle English word "leper," originally "lepersone," referring to someone who looked after persons suffering from leprosy. According to the principle of occupational surnames which was common during the Middle Ages, the name was hence given to individuals who held this occupation.

This surname, like other Scottish surnames, spread throughout the world due to migration, colonization, and other historical events. Today, Leiper is relatively more common in Scotland and other English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. However, the highest concentration of people with the Leiper surname is still in Scotland, especially in areas like Perthshire and Angus. Records indicate that the family held a family seat in Scottish territory from ancient times.

Despite its Scottish roots, the global distribution of the Leiper surname means it is certainly not exclusive to Scotland or English-speaking countries. Thus, it can be found, though perhaps in smaller numbers, in various nations around the world.

Variations of the surname Leiper

The surname Leiper most likely originates from the British Isles, with alternate spellings and similar sounding surnames arising due to regional accents, spelling variations, or translation errors. Possible variants could include Leiper, Leaper, Liper, Leapper, Lieper, and Leyper.

The surnames Lipper, Lapper, and Lopper could be potential variants as well, especially considering how names could have been changed or altered depending on the language or dialect.

In addition to these, the surname Leiper could also be derived from the German surname Lepper, or from the English occupational name Lapper, meaning a person who mends pots and pans. The surname could have been modified to better fit the spoken language of the region.

It's also worth noting that Leiper could potentially be a matronymic or patronymic surname, indicating that one is the 'son of Leiper' or descended from a matriarch with the name Leiper.

In modern times, surnames often have numerous variations due to factors such as immigration and cultural assimilation, leading to even more possible variants, such as Leipper, Leppers, Lepers, and others. Therefore, it is always best to research the specific lineage and history of a surname for the most accurate information.

Famous people with the name Leiper

• Becky Leiper– Becky Leiper is a Scottish diver who has competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics and the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
• John Leiper– John Leiper is a former professional American football player who played for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL.
• Jack Leiper– Jack Leiper is a Scottish footballer who plays for Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Professional Football League.
• Robert Leiper– Robert Leiper was a Scottish international rugby union player who played for the British and Irish Lions in the 1910 tour to South Africa.
• William Leiper– William Leiper was a Scottish architect known for his mix of the ‘Gothic style with Renaissance ornament’.
• Henry Leiper– Henry Leiper was an American WWI veteran and stock broker for Moore & Schley.
• William E. Leiper– William E. Leiper was the first Hunterdon County, New Jersey Sheriff, serving from 1791-1817.
• Charles Leiper Grigg– Charles Leiper Grigg was an American chemist and the inventor of the soft drink 7-Up.
• Robert Leiper– Robert Leiper was a British Army officer who was awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry in the Second Boer War.
• Kate Leiper– Kate Leiper is a contemporary Scottish illustrator and designer known for creating artwork for many major British companies.

Other surnames

LeipeltLeipertLeipertsLeipertz