indicate the level to which a name has been verified.
Type Surname (from location & from nickname)
Usage Dutch
Other Forms FormsElzevir, Elzevier, Helseviers
Meaning & History
The name of a prominent Dutch publishing house of the 17th and 18th century, possibly derived from Old Hebrew הל ספר (hal safir) meaning "the book". Another suggested origin is Dutch hellevuur "hellfire" or helsche vier "four from hell", supposedly derived from a sign by the family’s house.