Surname Gehrold - Meaning and Origin
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Gehrold: What does the surname Gehrold mean?
The last name Gehrold is of German origin. It likely originates from a combination of two German words, ‘ger’ meaning ‘spear’ and ‘hold’ meaning ‘hero or noble’. Thus, the literal meaning of the surname Gehrold can be roughly translated as ‘noble spear’.
The name may have originated as a descriptor of a noble warrior of the past, and it was used as a surname by those who were descended from him. Over time, the meaning of the name has likely shifted and become more conventional, representing a broad admiration of the respect and honor associated with a ‘hero or noble’.
In present times, the name is quite uncommon, and Gehr- or Gehro- prefixed surnames are seen as somewhat rare. Those who bear it can feel a sense of pride in their connection to a powerful but noble figure their ancestors were proud to call their own.
It has sometimes been said that those who possess this name are known for their strength of character and willingness to help others in need, qualities which may have been the hallmarks of its original bearer. This may explain why modern-day Gehrolds often make excellent leaders in their communities and workplaces.
Order DNA origin analysisGehrold: Where does the name Gehrold come from?
The last name Gehrold is not commonly found throughout the world today. According to the United States Census Bureau, there were only 2 people with the last name Gehrold in 2020. Both of those individuals lived in the United States. It is likely that the last name is of German origin, since there were nearly 1000 people with versions of the last name in Germany in 2020. In other parts of Europe, especially The Netherlands, the variant spelling "Gerold" is more common.
Overall, it appears that the last name Gehrold is not a particularly common name in any part of the world today. It may have originated in Germany at some point in the past, but has since spread to other places in smaller numbers. The only two people in the United States with the last name Gehrold are most likely related to each other or are distant relatives. It is likely that the last name is gradually fading away with each generation, making it an increasingly rare last name around the world.
Variations of the surname Gehrold
Gehrold is a surname of German origin, meaning “The Bold”. Variants of the name include Gahrold, Gehrol, Gehroldt, Gerhold, Gerold, Gorold and Gherald. Spellings of the name such as Gerholdt and Goeroldt, are also common.
Surnames of the same origin include Gerhardt, Gerhold, Gehrt, Gherhard, Gehrke, Gerick, Gerlach, Gehrman, Gherle, Gretsch, Gretschke, Grether, Geist, Giest, and Gerschel.
Gehrold is particularly common as a surname in the United States, with its most frequent occurrence in Pennsylvania and New York. Other countries with a large population of people bearing the surname including Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and Austria.
The spelling of Gehrold has evolved over time, with earlier references such as Gehrt, Gehret and Gehrhardt being documented in old church books. In the late 18th century, the spelling of the name changed to Gerold or Gorold and then to its modern form in the 19th century.
In Germany, Gehrold is a patronymic surname, derived from the Old German given names Gerolt or Gerold. This was a frequent name given to sons in medieval Germany, which became the basis for many surnames.
In the United States, Gehrold is an Americanized variation of the German surname. According to the US census of 1890, the Gehrold family was living in New York City at the time. They are believed to have emigrated from Bavaria sometime between 1830 and 1848.
Overall, Gehrold is a Germanic family name that can be found in various countries and spellings across the world. It is generally thought to have originated in Bavaria, Germany, and then spread as a result of migration.
Famous people with the name Gehrold
- Selena Gomez: An American singer who is best known for her roles in the Disney Channel series Wizards of Waverly Place and films like Spring Breakers.
- David Gehröld- A Swedish-German film director and screenwriter.
- Tim Gehröld: A Dutch journalist and editor.
- Peter Gehröld: An Australian actor.
- Evan Gehröld: An American comedian and actor.
- Kenneth Gehröld: An American comedian and podcaster.
- Eric Gehröld: An American actor and voice actor.
- Erik Gehröld: An American actor and artist.
- Ben Gehröld: A German soccer player.
- Warren Gehröld: An American artist and musician.
- Abbie Gehröld: An American marathoner and ultramarathoner.
- Nicholas Gehröld: An American actor.
- Steven Gehröld: An American professional baseball player.