The Geiger Surname

The German surname Geiger is of occupational origin, being one of those surnames based on the name of the trade or profession once pursued by the original bearer. 

In this instance, the name can be traced on the Old Germanic word 'Geiger', meaning, literally, 'a fiddle player'. Thus one who played a violin or a fiddle for a living was known by this name. During the Middle Ages it was common practice to identify a man with the trade he pursued and to refer to him in this manner. Musicians were very important in medieval society, they were often strolling musicians who went from town to town where they were employed by the nobleman to entertain in his castle. Carnivals and fairs were also very important events in the German speaking lands which now constitute modern day Germany. These occurred in the days proceeding Lent when a few days of merriment took place. The strolling musicians were an integral part of these activities. 

The earliest recorded instance of this surname of Germanic origin from the Middle Ages. One Eberhard Geiger is registered therein in 1268.  

The earliest record in this surname is Christian Geiger, born in 1743