Chaums

Chaums is a surname of French origin. In English-language contexts, Chaums may refer to multiple people bearing the surname Chaum or to the family as a group. The etymology is not certain, but it is commonly linked to the French chaume, meaning thatch or straw roof, suggesting an occupational origin for early bearers such as a thatcher. Variants and related forms include Chaum, Chaume, and Chaumes.

David Chaum (born 1955) is the most prominent bearer of the surname. An American cryptographer and privacy researcher, he is widely regarded as a pioneer in digital cash and anonymous communication. His work includes the development of electronic cash (eCash), blind signatures, and mix networks, which have influenced privacy-enhancing technologies and concepts in cryptography and distributed systems.

The surname Chaum remains relatively uncommon and is most frequently found in France and among expatriate or diaspora communities in other countries. When referring to more than one person with this surname in English, the plural form Chaums is used, though the name itself does not carry a meaning beyond identifying individuals or families.

See also: Chaum (surname); Chaume; Chaumes.