Elzinga Family History
Elzinga Surname Meaning
West Frisian is a habitational name originating from an estate or farm that was once owned by a certain Elze and his kin. The name Elze itself is derived from an ancient Germanic personal name that includes the element adel, meaning ‘noble’.
The surname incorporates the patronymic suffix -ing along with the genitive plural ending -a, which suggests a familial or ancestral connection.
Additionally, the name can also represent an occupational designation for a shoemaker. This association arises from the Dutch word els, meaning ‘pricker’, which refers to a tool commonly used by shoemakers.
To reinforce this occupational link, the suffix -inga is included, indicating a relationship to the profession.
Thus, the name West Frisian encapsulates both a geographical and a professional lineage, highlighting the intertwined nature of personal and family history in its formation.
Source: Dictionary of American Family Names 2nd edition, 2022