The Gross Family History

What Does the Gross Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Gross has its roots in German, French, and English cultures, deriving from the Middle High German word ‘groz,’ which translates to 'large' or 'thick. ' Similarly, the Old French equivalent ‘gros,’ originating from the Latin term ‘grossus,’ also conveys the meaning of 'large. ' Variants of the surname include Grosz, Grosse, and Grose. The Gross surname can be encountered across numerous European countries, with a notable presence throughout England, although it is relatively scarce in Wales. Within England, the counties that exhibit a higher concentration of Gross families include Yorkshire, Essex, Lancashire, Suffolk, and Northamptonshire. In Scotland, the name is primarily found in a few regions, particularly in Midlothian, Lanarkshire, and Renfrewshire. In the United States, states such as New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Missouri, California, and Kentucky host the largest populations of individuals bearing the Gross surname. Noteworthy individuals associated with this name include Alfred J. Gross, the inventor recognized for mobile wireless communication devices such as CB radios, walkie-talkies, cordless phones, and pagers; Jordan Gross, a professional football player; Mary Gross, an actress; Milt Gross, a comic artist; Robert Ellsworth Gross, a developer at Lockheed Corporation; Michael Gross, a champion swimmer from Germany; Henry Gross, a singer and songwriter; and Gabe Gross, a professional baseball player.