Goldfeld (surname)

Goldfeld is a surname of Ashkenazi Jewish origin. It is a compound surname, derived from the German words "Gold" meaning gold and "Feld" meaning field. Thus, the surname literally translates to "gold field".

Surnames like Goldfeld were often adopted by Jewish families in Central and Eastern Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries, when they were required by law to adopt hereditary family names. The specific reasons for choosing this name are unknown, but it could have been related to occupation (e.g., someone involved in gold mining or trade), location (e.g., living near a field perceived as valuable), or simply aesthetic preference.

The surname can be found in various forms, and variations in spelling may exist due to transliteration differences and regional dialects.

Notable people with the surname Goldfeld include:

• Stephen Goldfeld, an American economist known for his work in econometrics.

The distribution of the surname is primarily in areas with historical Jewish populations, such as the United States, Israel, and parts of Europe. Genealogical research can provide further insights into the specific origins and family history of individuals bearing the surname Goldfeld.