Kruse is a surname of German origin, derived from the Middle Low German word "kruse", which means "bush" or "shrub". It was typically given as an occupational name to a grower or seller of shrubs and plants. The name has also been found in Denmark and Norway, where it may have originated independently due to similar sounds and meanings in the local languages.
The earliest records of the surname Kruse appear in Germany during the Middle Ages. In the 13th century, a "Gode Cruse" was recorded in Hamburg, Germany. Over time, the name spread throughout Europe, with notable occurrences in countries such as Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
In some places, Kruse has been adapted into given names, used alongside traditional surnames or independently as a standalone first name. However, it is more commonly used as a surname, particularly in Scandinavian countries and Germany.
Today, Kruse remains a relatively uncommon but recognizable surname, with its origins rooted in historical occupations and cultural traditions of various European regions.
Kruse has seen a consistent number of babies named annually since 2008, with fluctuations ranging from 5 to 10 births per year. There was a notable gap in recorded births between 2013 and 2015. As of 2023, there have been a total of 70 Kruse babies born.