Reuter 2 is a German surname derived from Middle High German riutœre, meaning "highwayman" or "thief". It originated as an occupational name for a robber or bandit metonymically. The name is distinct from the more common Reuter surname, which typically derives from Reiter ("rider" or "knight"), though both share similar orthography. Distribution data indicates this variant is comparatively rare, primarily concentrated in German-speaking regions of Central Europe. Its usage peaked historically in areas of modern-day Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, where robbery in forests or on trade routes was a known medieval practice. Over time, the surname may have been diluted or interchanged with the prestigious Reuter form.
- Meaning: "highwayman, thief"
- Origin: German (Middle High German riutœre)
- Type: Occupational surname
- Usage Regions: Germany, Austria, Switzerland
Same Spelling
Sources: Forebears — reuter-2