Surname Gsöll - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'G'
Gsöll: What does the surname Gsöll mean?
The last name Gsöll is a German-Austrian surname, typically associated with regions of Upper Austria and South Tyrol. It is derived from the Old High German word "gsolla", meaning "basket" or "box". This is reflected in the coat of arms of the Gsöll family, which features a basket or box at its centre.
In some cases, it is believed that the name originated from areas now found in the Czech Republic, where a word meaning "field" or "land" was used instead of "gsolla". This interpretation could suggest that the name was used to designate individuals who primarily worked in agriculture, specifically those who owned or leased land for the purpose of farming.
The Gsöll family have a long history dating back almost 800 years. There is evidence that suggests the first known bearer of the name was active during the 13th century, when Austria was divided among various ruling families.
The Gsöll family are often associated with politics, with some members holding positions in local and national governments in Austria. In addition, the name has been used to refer to famous writers, performers, athletes, and public figures throughout the centuries.
The Gsöll surname is a permanent reminder of an important era in Austrian history and serves as a symbol of the family's strong and proud heritage.
Order DNA origin analysisGsöll: Where does the name Gsöll come from?
The last name Gsöll is most commonly found in central Europe, predominantly in the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. In particular, it is most prevalent in Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, Slovenia, and Croatia. Gsöll is an old-fashioned form of the more common German name Geisler, which is derived from the Middle High German goiser, meaning “host or foreigner.”
In Austria, the last name Gsöll is mainly associated with the town of Gsöll or Geisels in Oberösterreich, close to the border with the Czech Republic, and it is believed to have been founded sometime in the early medieval period. In the Czech Republic, Gsöll is mostly concentrated in the south-east regions of Moravia and Bohemia. The name also appears in Romania and Slovakia, but it is much less common.
It is not known precisely when the name first came into use, but documents from the early fifteenth century make reference to the ‘Geisels of Austria’ – suggesting that the name may have been in use at that time. In modern times, the name persists in its various forms across central Europe, with many people making use of variants such as Geisler or Geissells.
In the United States, the name is much less common. There are a few records of people with this last name immigrating to America in the past, but it is far from being a major presence in the country. As such, it is much more likely to encounter the name in its native countries in Europe.
Variations of the surname Gsöll
The surname Gsöll has several variant spellings and surnames of the same origin. The most common variant spellings of Gsöll are Gsell, Gaesell, and Gesell. These spellings might appear in records in other areas and countries where different variants of the same name could be used.
The surname Gsöll is found particularly in Austria, and is derived from the root word 'gesellen', meaning associate or comrade. In old German documents written in Middle High German, Gsöll is sometimes seen spelt as 'gesellen' or 'gäsellen'.
In some instances, the surname Gsöll is also seen transcribed as 'Gsell', for example in records of masonry guilds, as 'Gesell' in some German church registries, or sometimes even as 'Gaiselle' in some French records.
Surname variants of Gsöll include Gaesell, Gsell, Gesell, Gsells, Gsellers, Gsellman, Gsellmeister, Gsellmann, and Gsellschaft.
By understanding the variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin for the surname Gsöll, one can more easily trace ancestors with this surname across different countries and eras. In the past, recognising alternative spellings of names was crucial for accurate records, especially in countries that didn't have a single language or alphabet. Fortunately, modern technology and database searches make finding these variants easier.
Famous people with the name Gsöll
- Luca Gsöll: Austrian politician of the SPÖ (Social Democratic Party of Austria) and former councillor in Schwarzenbach an der Pielach.
- Mathaira Gsöll: Austrian digital strategist and former member of the F Bernhofen-Alexander Team in Kaarst-Nord.
- Eva Gsöll: Czech opera singer and lead vocalist in several choirs, as well as a music teacher.
- Isabel Gsöll: German neurology specialist, practicing in the state of Hesse.
- Heinz Gsöll: Austrian painter and sculptor, who was born in Hollabrunn in 1947 and has works exhibited in museums in Vienna, Innsbruck, and Inzell.
- Bernadette Gsöll: Austrian archaeologist and professor at the University of Vienna.
- Philipp Gsöll: Austrian alpine skier who competed in the World Cup between 2009 and 2013.
- Oskar Gsöll: Austrian professional golfer, winner of 17 tournaments in the Austrian and international fields.
- Astrid Gsöll: German painter and sculptor, member of the Buntenhunde art group in Berlin.
- Margarethe Gsöll: Austrian actress who has appeared in multiple films and theatre performances.