Here's a breakdown:
* Meaning: "Lippe" is a river in Germany, and the surname likely originated from someone who lived near the river.
* Variations: The name has been spelled various ways, including "Lypp, Lyps, and Lipp."
* Location: The surname is found in the United States, specifically in the eastern states like Pennsylvania, Virginia, and North Carolina. It's likely these early settlers brought the name over from England, where it had already been established.
It's important to note: While the most likely origin of Lipe is English, there's always the possibility that the name has been adopted independently in different parts of the world. A comprehensive family history search might reveal more specific information.