Surname Apfel - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'A'
Apfel: What does the surname Apfel mean?
Apfel is a German surname that translates to "apple" in English. The name likely originated as a nickname for a grower or seller of apples, or possibly for someone who lived near an apple orchard. Like many other European surnames, it is occupational or topographical in nature, derived from the profession or geographical location associated with the individual or family. It's also possible that it may have been used metaphorically to signify someone who was particularly fond of apples or as an affectionate nickname. As with all surnames, the exact origin can be difficult to trace due to centuries of migration and lineage. Some variants of the name include Appel, Appell, Äpfel, and Apfels. Notable people with the last name Apfel include fashion icon Iris Apfel and American diplomat Richard W. Apfel.
Order DNA origin analysisApfel: Where does the name Apfel come from?
Apfel is a German surname that literally translates to "apple" in English. Many surnames originated from occupations, geographical locations, or even descriptions of individuals. It is believed that in the case of Apfel, the name could likely denote a fruit seller or orchardist. Alternatively, it might have been used metaphorically to represent someone with a sweet or appealing personality.
Today, the surname Apfel is not particularly common anywhere. However, considering its German origins, it can be found amongst communities in Germany. Due to global immigration patterns, it is also present in countries where German people have migrated, notably the United States of America. It's important to mention that in the US, the name gained some prominence through the fashion icon Iris Apfel. Overall though, Apfel is a relatively rare surname worldwide.
Variations of the surname Apfel
The surname Apfel is of German origin and refers to 'apple' referring to someone who lived near an apple orchard. Variations of spelling and transliteration due to geographical locations and dialects are common with surnames. For Apfel, there are few such variations.
Similar and related surnames include Apfelbaum, meaning 'apple tree', a common Jewish surname. Variations like Appel, Apel, Appell, and Apell are also found, primarily in the Germanic and Scandinavian regions.
Another variant could be "Äpfel", which is the plural form of "Apfel" in German, or Appelman, implying 'apple man'.
It is important to note that these variances could also alter the surname meaning depending on the vernacular language where it's used. The surname could have taken various forms due to migration and translation between languages over centuries. However, all remain connected by the core "apple" reference.
Famous people with the name Apfel
- Iris Apfel: An American businesswoman, interior designer, and fashion icon. Renowned for her eclectic, flamboyant style and her enormous, colorful glasses, she is recognized internationally as a fashion doyenne.
- Carl Apfel: Late husband of Iris Apfel and founded the textile firm Old World Weavers with her, which is known for reproducing antique fabrics.
- Ronnie Apfel: A notable figure in the field of finance, holding several executive positions in Wall Street firms.
- Elliot Apfel: Celebrity fashion stylist and son of Iris and Carl Apfel. Please note that it is not common for many celebrities to have the last name "Apfel." Mainly, Iris Apfel is the most recognized individual with this surname due to her long-standing influence in the world of fashion.