Gerritsz

Gerritsz. is a Dutch patronymic surname, meaning "son of Gerrit". Gerrit is a Dutch form of the given name Gerard. As a patronymic surname, it was originally used to identify an individual by his father's name. Over time, patronymics like Gerritsz. became hereditary surnames, passed down through generations.

The "sz" suffix is a common abbreviation of "zoon", meaning "son" in Dutch. Historically, variations of the name include Gerrits, Gerritse, Gerritsen, and Gerritsma. The distribution of the surname is primarily found in the Netherlands, and among descendants of Dutch emigrants in other countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Notable individuals with the surname Gerritsz. (or variations thereof) include:

• Hessel Gerritsz (c. 1581 – 1632): A Dutch cartographer, engraver, publisher and bookseller. He was one of the most important mapmakers of the Dutch Golden Age.

The surname's origin can be traced back to various regions within the Netherlands, and genealogical research is often required to pinpoint specific ancestral locations. The meaning and history of the name highlight the traditions of Dutch naming practices and the evolution of surnames in the region.