Kihlstrom

Kihlström is a Swedish surname that is sometimes rendered without diacritics as Kihlstrom in English-language usage. It is a compound name, a common pattern in Nordic surnames, and ends with the element -ström, which is widely found in Swedish family names.

The prefix element Kihl is of uncertain precise origin and can reflect a range of historical sources, such as a locality, a nickname, or a personal name. The suffix -ström generally conveys a geographical or topographical association, often interpreted as “stream” or “current.” Like many Swedish surnames adopted in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Kihlström combines a formative element with the descriptive -ström suffix to create a family name.

Distribution and use: The surname is most prevalent in Sweden and among descendants of Swedish emigrants. It is also found among Nordic communities abroad, including in Finland and North America, where such names were carried through migration and settlement. The spelling Kihlstrom is common in contexts where the umlaut is not used or readily available.

Notable associations: As with many surnames, individuals bearing the name Kihlström have contributed across various fields, including academia, sports, and the arts. A concise list of notable people would typically be included in a broader reference work, though specific names may vary by region and historical period.

See also: Variants and related surnames formed with -ström; general discussions of Swedish naming practices and surname formation.