Some of the most common German last names are Mueller, Schmidt, Weber, and Hoffmann. These names are derived from occupations such as miller, blacksmith, weaver, and innkeeper. Other common German last names include Bauer (farmer), Koch (cook), and Schulz (schoolteacher).
German last names can also be taken from places where families lived or owned land. For example, the name "Bach" comes from the German word for "stream," while "Wald" means "forest." Sometimes, German last names are even taken from the words for physical features like "Eck" (corner) or "Berg" (mountain).
Over time, many German families changed their last names to fit in with their new countries after emigrating. Today, there are millions of people around the world with German last names. Have a look at this list of German last names.