Schmitt (surname)

Schmitt is a common German surname.

Origin: The name Schmitt derives from the German word "Schmied," meaning "blacksmith" or "smith." It is an occupational surname, referring to a person who worked with metal. Variations of the name exist, reflecting regional dialects and historical spellings.

Distribution: The surname Schmitt is predominantly found in Germany, but is also common in other countries with significant German diaspora populations, such as the United States, Canada, and Argentina. Within Germany, it is more prevalent in the western and southwestern regions.

Variations: Common variations of the name include Schmidt, Schmid, Schmitz, and Smid. These variations often arose through regional pronunciation differences and spelling conventions over time.

Notable People: Numerous individuals with the surname Schmitt have achieved prominence in various fields. Examples include:

• Carl Schmitt (1888–1985): A controversial German jurist, political theorist, and professor.
• Harrison Schmitt (born 1935): An American geologist, astronaut, and former U.S. Senator. He was the only scientist and last living person to walk on the Moon as part of the Apollo 17 mission.
• Florent Schmitt (1870-1958): A French composer.

Related Terms: The term "Schmiede" refers to a smithy or blacksmith's workshop.