Krug
A German surname meaning “jug” or “pitcher,” often originally a sign-name or nickname connected with a jug-maker, inn, or tavern.
The #4,531 most common surname in the United States (2010 Census) — about 1 in every 39,446 Americans shares it.
Etymology
Krug is the German word for a jug, pitcher, or earthenware vessel. It goes back to Middle High German and Old High German forms such as kruog/kruog, referring to a drinking or carrying vessel. As a surname, it may have started as an occupational name for someone who made or sold jugs, or as a house-sign or nickname connected with an inn or tavern.
History
The name is well established in German-speaking areas and was carried abroad by German emigrants, especially to North America. Historical surname dictionaries also group it with related forms such as Krueger and Kruger, though those are often distinct derivations. In some cases, Krug may also have been used as a descriptive or sign-based name rather than a strict occupation.
Origin
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Variant spellings
Fun fact
German historical sources sometimes explain related names with phrases like “filling the jug,” showing how everyday objects became the basis for surnames and humorous bynames.
From the historical record
“KRUGER J I- (with agent, suff. -er) Ger. krug, jug, po't ; O.H.Ger. kruog'\ KUHN1 (Ger.) Bold, kuhnI”
— Surnames of the United Kingdom: a concise etymological dictionary (2 vols in 1)