This is a reply within a larger thread: view the whole thread

Re: Straus(s)
in reply to a message by A
Hi A,Yes, Strauss / Strauß is exclusivly used as a surname (at least in Germany).It derives from the Middle High German word "struz" which has got three different meanings:1) "Ostrich", which refers to an ostrich feather at a person's helmet or to a person's beautiful eyes.2) "Opposition, conflict, combat", which refers to an aggressive person.3) "Shrub, bush", which refers to the place where the person lived.In modern High German "Strauß" means "ostrich" (and "bouquet", but this hasn't got anything to do with the surname).Regards, Satu
vote up1vote down

Replies

OK, Satu, you've got me really confused this time! How do you get beautiful eyes from ostriches. or their plumes?Ostriches themselves have got magnificent eyes - large, and fringed with gorgeous feathery lashes that Hollywood starlets would kill or die for - but they must have been rather rare in medieval Germany. Interesting thought!All the best
vote up1vote down
Hey Anneza!Yes, ostriches are still quite rare in Germany even nowadays! ;)But obviously there were some noblemen in medieval Germany who importet their feathers from Africa to put them on their helmets... (which must have been a sight to behold ;D )Satu
vote up1vote down