Kaufer

Kaufer is a German surname meaning "trader" or "merchant," derived from the German word kaufen (to buy). It originallly referred to a person involved in commerce, much like the English surname "Chapman." The name is an occupational surname, common in German-speaking regions, and may also appear as a variant Käufer, where the umlaut changes the pronunciation.

Geographic Distribution

Kaufer is predominantly found in Germany, with historical clusters in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. The name also spread to other countries through emigration, particularly to the United States, where German immigrants carried their surnames.

Notable Bearers

• Aaron Kaufer (born 1989), American politician from Pennsylvania
• Caroline Kaufer, American philanthropist and entrepreneur
• David S. Kaufer, American scholar and co-author of The Design of Business Communication
• Evelin Kaufer (born 1941), East German sprinter and multiple European Championships medalist
• Jonathan Kaufer (born 1955), American film director known for The Trap (1987)
• Virág Kaufer (born 1974), Hungarian politician and Member of Parliament
• Stephen Kaufer (born 1962), American entrepreneur and co-founder of TripAdvisor
• Stephan A. Kaufer (born 1958), American philosopher and historian of philosophy

Cultural References

The minor planet 216624 Kaufer, discovered in 2005, was named after the Stephen Kaufer, honoring his contributions to the travel industry.

• Meaning: Trader, merchant
• Origin: German
• Type: Occupational surname
• Usage: Germany, United States, Hungary