Nass is a Norwegian surname, forming a variant of Ness. Like Ness, the name derives from the toponymic element referring to a "headland, promontory" — from Old Norse nes, still common in modern Norwegian as nes. The shift from Ness to Nass reflects regional spelling or pronunciation variations in Scandinavia. Etymology The root of these names lies in the Old Norse word nes, meaning a peninsula or a point of land jutting into water. In Norwegian, nes has long been used both as a common noun and as an element in place names and surnames, often indicating a farmstead or dwelling built on such a geographical feature. Over time, surnames like Ness, Nass, Næss, and Naess developed as variations of the same topographic origin, adopted by families living near headlands. In some English contexts, Nass may also represent an alternative form or spelling of Ness, particularly among English-speaking families. Additionally, as a separate lexical entry, the word "Nass" in Tlingit refers to a "intestine" and gives name to the Nass River in British Columbia; however, this usage stems from indigenous origins unrelated to the Scandinavian surname. Geographic Distribution and Variants Within Norway, the surname occurs in various spellings: Nass, Ness, Næss, and Naess are all recorded. While Ness is the most common form, Næss and Nass are found particularly in western and coastal areas where farm names ending in -nes were abundant. Emigration in the 19th and 20th centuries brought the name to America and other global communities. Today, bearers of the surname Nass demonstrate a toponymic link to coastal heritage, reflecting the ancestral linkage to Norway’s rugged shores. Meaning: Headland, promontory Origin: Old Norse nes Type: Surname (topographic) Primary region: Norway (also occasional English variant of Ness)