Brunke

Brunke is a relatively uncommon surname. Its origins are primarily German. The name is generally believed to be derived from a shortened or pet form of names containing the element "brun," meaning "brown" or "bright brown." These names were often descriptive, referring to a person's hair or complexion. The name might have originated as a nickname that eventually became a hereditary surname.

Variations of the name may include Brunken, Brunke, and Brunken. Records of the name can be found predominantly in regions with a strong historical German presence.