The Kline Family History

What Does the Kline Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Kline, of German and Dutch origin, derives from the German word ‘klien,’ which translates to small. This surname has several variations in spelling, including Kleine, Kleynn, Clein, Kleiner, Klinertz, Klein, Kleinne, and Kleinn. In England, the Kline name is predominantly found in the northern regions of Yorkshire and Lancashire. In Germany, its origins can be traced back to the Rhineland area. In the United States, the Kline surname first appeared in states such as Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, Maryland, Ohio, and North Carolina. Notable individuals bearing this surname include Kevin Kline, a celebrated film actor; John Kline, a professional basketball player with the Harlem Globetrotters; A. Kline, an English author; Morris Kline, a renowned writer; Franz Kline, an influential artist; Otis Adelbert Kline, a novelist; and Christopher Kline, a musician.