Surname · Hebrew origin
Kaplan
Meaning
The surname Kaplan means Chaplain, priest.
Origin
Hebrew
Type
other
U.S. rank (2010)
#1,090
U.S. bearers (2010)
29,410
How common is it?
Kaplan ranks #1,090 among U.S. surnames (2010 U.S. Census), recorded for about 29,410 people.
The origin of the surname Kaplan
Kaplan means “chaplain,” and like Cohen often marks priestly descent.
How Hebrew surnames work
Jewish surnames arise from several traditions: priestly and Levite lineage (Cohen, Levi), patronymics with ben or bar (“son of”), places of origin, and occupations. Many Ashkenazi surnames were adopted or imposed in Europe in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, including ornamental German-style names, while modern Israel saw many families Hebraise their surnames into Hebrew words.
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Kaplan mean?
The surname Kaplan means Chaplain, priest. Kaplan means “chaplain,” and like Cohen often marks priestly descent.
Where does the surname Kaplan come from?
Kaplan is a surname of Hebrew origin.
What kind of surname is Kaplan?
Kaplan is a other surname.
How common is the surname Kaplan in the United States?
Kaplan ranks #1,090 among U.S. surnames (2010 U.S. Census), recorded for about 29,410 people.