Surname Kniel - Meaning and Origin
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Kniel: What does the surname Kniel mean?
The surname Kniel does not have a widely known or specific meaning. It's possible that it's derived from the Middle High German word "kniel," which refers to a short cloak or knee-length garment, but this is speculative. Kniel might also be a variant of other surnames, like Kneel or Knill. As a German name, it could potentially indicate a geographic or occupational connection in a family's history, or it might simply be derived from a given name. Records of this surname can be found in various European regions, including Germany, Austria, and the UK. While tracing the exact origin and meaning of surnames can be complex due to the dynamic nature of language and migration, it's certain that the Kniel family has left its own unique mark on history.
Order DNA origin analysisKniel: Where does the name Kniel come from?
The last name Kniel is mainly found in Germany, but also in Austria, Switzerland, and other German-speaking countries, as well as in Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, and elsewhere across Europe. Furthermore, it is known to be found in countries that have large German-speaking diaspora, for instance the United States and parts of South America.
In Germany, the last name Kniel is most widespread in the southern regions of the country. It is particularly common in the states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, located in the southwest. Genealogical research shows that the Kniels in these regions are all descended from a common ancestor with the same name, although their exact origin is unknown.
The last name is also well represented in the cities of Berlin and Munich, as well as in the surrounding rural areas. It is thought that the Kniels settled in the area shortly after the Thirty Years' War in the 17th century. Since then, the name has been passed down through the generations.
Outside of Europe, records show that several individuals with the last name Kniel have emigrated to the United States over the past two centuries. These have mainly settled in large metropolitan areas such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. There are also some Kniels in South America, particularly in Brazil.
Overall, the last name Kniel is still found mainly in Europe, particularly in Germany. Yet, many individuals with this name have also spread to other parts of the world, making it a global surname.
Variations of the surname Kniel
The surname Kniel can have a variety of variants. Some of the most common variants are Kneel, Kneeler, Kniell, Kneall, Kneale, Kniale, Nial, Niall, and Neal. Other variations of Kniel include Knie, Kneyel, Knill, Kneil, and Knehler. In addition, Kniel is an anglicized form of the germanic and jewish surname Kneehl.
Spellings can also vary for Kniel. One of the main alternate spellings is Neel. The other two spellings are Kniell and Kneyel.
Surnames of the same origin as Kniel are Kneebl, Kneehl, Kneisel, Kneissl, Kneipel, Kneppel, Nepell, and Nipel. These surnames were usually derived from a geographical location, occupational name, or a proprietary nickname.
Kniel is also a favorable surname among immigrant families from different parts of the world. The name has seen some variation in spelling as families moved across geographic and cultural borderlines. For example, in India, Kniel may be spelled as Kneelu, Kniulu, and Niyalu. In Scotland, Kniel may be spelled as Neal, Neil, Naill, or Niall. In Ireland, Kniel may be spelled as Knoyle, Knoal, or Neale.
Thus, Kniel can come in many forms, with the spelled variants, alternate spellings and surnames of similar origin all deriving from the same origin.
Famous people with the name Kniel
- Abel Kniel: Swiss figure skater and 2019 Swiss national champion.
- Eelco Kniel: Dutch chef and 2010 Bocuse d'Or Netherlands winner.
- Terence Kniel: British actor, known for his roles in films such as "Bridget Jones's Diary" and "The Three Musketeers".
- Greg Kniel: American professional golfer on the PGA Tour Latinoamérica.
- Michaela Kniel: German footballer, who plays as a goalkeeper for the German national team.
- Mike Kniel: American actor, best known for his roles in the television series "Friends" and "Boston Legal".
- Kathleen Kniel: French ballet dancer and choreographer, winner of the 2012 Prix Benois de la Danse.
- Erwin Kniel: Austrian framer and artist, known for his intricate carvings.
- Shawna Kniel: South African athlete and model, winner of the 2008 Miss World South Africa pageant.
- Derek Kniel: Australian rules footballer, who plays for the West Coast Eagles in the Australian Football League.