Surname Oesterlen - Meaning and Origin
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Oesterlen: What does the surname Oesterlen mean?
The last name Oesterlen is German in origin. It is derived from the German phrase "Österlen," which means Eastern Star. In the Middle Ages, the Eastern Star was the star that was used to guide travelers at night. It symbolized guidance, protection, and hope for a safe journey.
The name Oesterlen also has connotations of good luck, as it can have the meaning of ‘good luck in the East’. In addition to that, it has its roots in the language of the ancients and is believed to have special powers associated with it, as it was believed that bad luck and disaster could be averted through the use of the Eastern Star.
In modern times, the name Oesterlen is associated with family values and a strong sense of heritage. This is due to its long history, as it has been passed down through the generations and is still in use today. The Oesterlen family values hard work, determination, and loyalty, and is often seen as a community leader in areas where its members live.
The name Oesterlen carries a great deal of meaning and symbolism, and is an important part of its bearer’s identity. It is a symbol of hope, protection, and luck, and is a representation of a strong sense of family values and a legacy of perseverance and determination.
Order DNA origin analysisOesterlen: Where does the name Oesterlen come from?
The last name Oesterlen is most common today in Germany, especially in the southern part of the country. According to the language institute of Germany, "Oesterlen" ranks in the top 250 surnames of the country. Although it is not particularly common, it is widely dispersed throughout Germany.
The name was originally from Switzerland and is derived from the old German word 'Oster', meaning Easter. The original spelling was "Osterleng" which is still used in parts of Switzerland. It is believed that the name Oesterlen originated between the 9th and 11th centuries.
The majority of people with the Oesterlen last name live in southern Germany, where the name is still quite common. It's also found in Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, France, and the United States. In the United States, the Oesterlen name is concentrated in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Illinois, and Minnesota.
Today, Oesterlen is a unique last name that is not extremely common, but has spread throughout Germany and beyond. It is a surname that is steeped in history and is a reminder of our rich cultural heritage.
Variations of the surname Oesterlen
The surname Oesterlen is relatively uncommon, but several variants and spellings exist. These include Oesterly, Osterley, Osterling, Osterlind, Oesterlyne, and Oesterly.
Most commonly, Oesterlen is a Germanic/Swiss-German surname originating from regions around Basel and the Black Forest region of Germany. The surname originated from the personal name "Ostmar" (from the German word Ost meaning East).
Oesterlen is often seen in the records of several parts of the United States, mainly in the 18th century. This is likely because of the influx of Continental Europeans to this area at this time.
Alternate spellings of Oesterlen can also be found in other countries. For example, Oesterlyn appears in Dutch records as a variant of Oesterlen. Other variants of the surname include Ossterling, Oesterlin, Oesterllin, and Ostlerling.
Derivatives of the Oesterlen surname include Ostler, Oster, Ostel, Ostlind, Oesterly, and Osterling. These surnames are often used interchangeably.
Although the exact origin of the surname Oesterlen is not known, it can be assumed to have been derived from a personal name. It is likely an adaptation of an Old German name showing the patronymic (father's name) of a particular family.
Famous people with the name Oesterlen
- Count Ludwig Eberhardt von Oesterlen (1839-1909): cavalry commander in the Imperial German Army who was awarded the Pour le Mérite military order.
- Alfred Oesterlen (1866-1940): German sculptor considered one of the most important artists of the German Neo-Romantic movement.
- Sebastian Oesterlen (1890–1943): German psychotherapist who developed a form of therapy for disturbed children.
- Georg Oesterlen (1905–1987): a German analyst and innovator in the fields of child and adolescent psychiatry.
- Wilhelm Oesterlen (1847-1917): a German cyto-histologist and botanist who was credited for the discovery of the existence of axial plastids.
- Hans Oesterlen (1868-1919): a German surgeon and political activist.
- Fritz Oesterlen (1881–1962): German art historian who wrote extensively on the sculptor Alfred Oesterlen and the German Neo-Romantic movement.
- Ulrich Oesterlen (1928-2005): a German physics professor and experimental nuclear physicist known for his studies in nuclear reactions.
- Ernst Oesterlen (1890–1941): a German eugenicist, physician, and SS-Sturmbannführer often credited with developing the first concentration camp medical system.