Fromm

Fromm is a surname of German origin. It derives from the Middle High German word fromm or fromme, meaning devout or pious, and was historically used as a nickname for a religiously devout person before becoming a hereditary surname. The name is found among German-speaking populations and in regions with German emigration.

The most prominent bearer of the name is Erich Fromm (1900–1980), a German social psychologist, psychoanalyst, and writer who became a naturalized citizen of the United States. Fromm developed a form of humanistic psychoanalysis that integrated social theory and philosophy. He argued that freedom and individuality in modern society carry both opportunities and existential risks, and he analyzed how social structures shape personality. His works, including Escape from Freedom (1941) and The Art of Loving (1956), have influenced discussions in psychology, sociology, and political thought.

Beyond Erich Fromm, the surname appears among various individuals across fields, though none have achieved the same level of international recognition. The name remains part of German heritage and is encountered in academic, literary, and cultural contexts where German names are present.