Herceg (surname)

Herceg is a surname found primarily in Croatia and, to a lesser extent, in other parts of the former Yugoslavia, particularly Serbia and Slovenia. It derives from the title "herceg," which is a South Slavic word of Hungarian origin (from herceg, itself ultimately from the German Herzog) meaning "duke." The surname likely originated as a descriptive name for someone associated with a duke, perhaps as a member of his household or retinue, or possibly for someone who held the title himself, even if temporarily or locally. It is also plausible that it could have been an occupational name for someone who served a duke in some capacity. The surname is found documented historically in various regions of Croatia, particularly Dalmatia and Slavonia. Variations in spelling may exist due to dialectal differences or transcription errors over time. Genealogical research can provide further information on the distribution and origins of specific Herceg families.