Surname · German origin
Schafer
Meaning
The surname Schafer means Shepherd.
Origin
German
Type
occupational
Variants
2
The origin of the surname Schafer
Schäfer means “shepherd.”
What kind of surname is Schafer?
Schafer is a occupational surname, originally describing the bearer's job or trade. It belongs to the German naming tradition — you can read how German surnames were formed on our German last names page.
Variants & spellings of Schafer
You may also see this surname written as:
- Schaefer
- Schafer
Other German surnames
Other occupational surnames
Family names formed the same way, from different cultures.
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Schafer mean?
The surname Schafer means Shepherd. Schäfer means “shepherd.”
Where does the surname Schafer come from?
Schafer is a surname of German origin.
What kind of surname is Schafer?
Schafer is a occupational surname, originally describing the bearer's job or trade.
What are other spellings of Schafer?
Variant spellings of Schafer include Schaefer, Schafer.
What are other German surnames?
Other German surnames include Bauer, Becker, Berger, Braun, Fischer, Hartmann.