Kraus is a German-language surname derived from Middle High German krus meaning “curly,” originally used as a nickname for a person with curly hair. The name is common in German-speaking countries as well as in the United States, Israel, and the Czech Republic, where the feminine form is Krausová.
Variants
Variants of the name include Krause, Krauss, Krauß, and Kruse, all sharing the same etymological root. The spelling Krauß uses the German eszett.
Notable Bearers
Notable bearers include individuals in the arts, sports, and sciences. In the arts, there are composers, musicians, and writers. In sports, the name appears among athletes from various disciplines. Science boasts Krauses as researchers and academics. A fictional character, Johann Kraus, appears in the Hellboy universe.
Distribution
The surname is widespread in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and among diaspora communities, especially in the United States and Israel. In the Czech Republic, the feminine adaptation Krausová is common.
- Meaning: “curly” (from Middle High German krus)
- Origin: German
- Type: Surname (nickname-based)
- Usage regions: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, United States, Israel, Czech Republic
Sources: Wikipedia — Kraus