Surname Rebel - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'R'
Rebel: What does the surname Rebel mean?
The last name 'Rebel' could have a few possible origins. It may be an occupational surname, referring to someone known for a rebellious nature or possibly even a professional agitator. Alternatively, it could be a nickname reflecting a person's disobedient or non-conformist character.
The word 'rebel' is derived from the Latin 'rebellis', meaning 'warlike', 'insurgent'. It became prevalent during the Middle Ages in English, French, and German, generally given to a person who always fought against the norms, the rulers, or the establishment.
Considering geographical origins, the surname appears to be most common in Germany and France, perhaps suggesting it could be a regional name given to families from a particular location named Rebel, which was common practice during medieval times.
The interpretation of the surname would significantly be dependent on the cultural, regional, and historical context where it was first used. However, all interpretations suggest a kind of dissident or contrary nature, someone independent or who doesn't just conform to the rules. Keep in mind, though, it's not always possible to determine the exact origins or meanings of surnames due to changes in language and cultural context over time.
Order DNA origin analysisRebel: Where does the name Rebel come from?
The last name Rebel is a surprisingly common name in several parts of the world. In Europe and the United States, Rebel is most prominently found in France, Germany, and the Netherlands. It is sometimes seen in the United Kingdom, as well as parts of South and Central America.
The origin of the name is likely Medieval French, derived from the Latin "rebelle", meaning "daring" in reference to a rebellious nature. It is unclear whether the name was initially used as a nickname to describe someone or a family that tended to resist, rebel, or protest against authority.
In addition to its use in France and other parts of Europe, Rebel is also widely seen in the US. It is a popular surname among French-Canadians that settled in Louisiana during the 18th century. In the register of Spanish America, it is also quite common in Argentina, Chile, and Mexico.
Overall, the last name of Rebel is spread across multiple continents, with an especially prominent presence in Europe, North America, and Latin America. It appears to have derived from a nickname developed during the Middle Ages in France, likely due to a rebellious spirit or defiant nature.
Variations of the surname Rebel
The surnames Rebel, Rebbel, Rebbelle, Rebell, Rebellle and Rebelle all have the same origin. These surnames are variations of the name derived from the French ‘rebelle’ made up of two parts, ‘re’, meaning ‘again’ and ‘belle’ meaning ‘beautiful’. It was originally given as a nickname to someone who was particularly strong-minded and defiant.
The surname Rebel is commonly found in the United States and Germany, though the surname originated in England. The surname is particularly common in Ireland, particularly in County Westmeath where it is thought to have first appeared in the twelfth century. It is also found in Scotland, France, Italy, Belgium and Finland.
In many cases the variants have become distinguishable over time. For example, Rebel is found primarily in the United States; Rebbel is most commonly found in Prussia; Rebell in France and Belgium; Rebbelle in Switzerland; Rebellle in Austria; and Rebelle in England.
The surname has an illustrious history. British statesman and patriot Edmund Burke (1729-1797) was a direct descendant of the Rebel family, which hails from County Westmeath, and the surname has also been represented by an alt rock group called Rebel Rebel from the Netherlands and a popular Belgian footballer named Julien Rebel.
Famous people with the name Rebel
- Vivienne Westwood: fashion designer, businesswoman and environmental activist
- Kate Hudson: actress, TV producer and singer
- Robert Downey Jr.: actor, producer and singer
- Emily Ratajkowski: model, actress and feminist activist
- Anthony Burgess: novelist, playwright and poet
- Saoirse Ronan: actress
- Elle Fanning: actress
- Rob Riggle: actor, comedian, and former US marine
- J.R.R. Tolkien: writer, poet and philologist
- Kayvon Webster: NFL cornerback