Shaffer

Shaffer is a surname of German origin derived from Schäfer, meaning shepherd. It is an occupational surname.

Spelling variants include Shafer, Schaefer, Schäfer, and Shaefer. The name often became anglicized in North America, yielding multiple related forms.

The surname originated in German-speaking regions and spread to North America with German-speaking immigrants in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the United States, Shaffer is found across many states, with historical concentrations in areas settled by German immigrants.

Beyond a family name, Shaffer appears in place names, institutions, and other toponyms that honor individuals bearing the surname. People named Shaffer have made contributions in politics, science, business, the arts, and other fields.

For related names, see Schaefer, Shafer, Schäfer, and other variants.