Surname Rohlsen - Meaning and Origin
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Rohlsen: What does the surname Rohlsen mean?
The surname Rohlsen is a topographic surname of Germanic origin. It refers to somebody who lived on a hill or mountain, or was from a place known as Rohlsen. The name is derived from the Old German words "hrol" and "sen" meaning "hill" and "sentinel" respectively.
The Rohlsen surname is found primarily in Germany and Scandinavia. Records indicate that it first appeared in Germany in the Middle Ages, when the Rohlsen family held a ancient hereditary title of nobility. The family name quickly spread throughout Europe when members moved in search of better means of fortune and of opportunity for their families.
In modern times, Rohlsen is an incredibly rare surname. Around the world, there are an estimated 200 individuals who bear the Rohlsen name. Individuals bearing the Rohlsen surname are found in the Midwest and Western regions of the United States.
The Rohlsen surname has no known coat of arms, however the family motto is “Die mit dem Fuchs.” This translates to “Those with the Fox.” This indicates that families who carry this name are resourceful and perceptive.
Overall, the surname Rohlsen is an incredibly rare name with an old Germanic origin. Though it’s not known for certain what the original meaning of the name is, it likely refers to somebody who lived on a hill or mountain or was from a place known as Rohlsen. The Rohlsen family retains a motto of “Those with the Fox” that hints at its resourcefulness and perceptive nature.
Order DNA origin analysisRohlsen: Where does the name Rohlsen come from?
The last name Rohlsen is mainly found in Denmark today, where it is fairly common. It is estimated that around 1,000 people living in Denmark have it as their family name.
The name can also be found in Greenland, Iceland and the Faroe Islands, as well as in Germany, Norway, Sweden, Russia and even some parts of the United States.
In the US, the name has been found in states such as New York, Michigan, California, and Wisconsin. It is believed to have been brought to the US in the mid-1800s by Danish immigrants.
In terms of what the name means, however, there is some dispute. Some sources suggest that the name originates from the Old Danish roel which means “roe deer” or “red deer”. Other sources suggest a link with the Dutch Hrol which means “rough or harsh”.
The origin of the name isn’t certain, but what is clear is that it is most commonly found in Denmark today. While it can be found in countries around the world, its popularity in Denmark is evident.
Variations of the surname Rohlsen
The surname Rohlsen is of German origin and is derived from a habitational name of any of numerous places named with the Middle High German personal name Roholt, a diminutive of the Germanic element hrod, meaning ‘fame’. As a result, there is a variety of spellings and variants to this surname. Rohlsen, Röhlsen, Rohlmann, Rohelman, Rollsen, and Röhlmann are the most common variations. Other variants of Rohlsen include Röhlen, Röhlons, Röhlman, Rohler, Rohle, Röhle, Röhlen, Röhler, Röhlings, Rohli, Röhl, Röhlich, Rohlitz, and Rohling. Röhl and Rohl are the most popular surnames that are derived from Rohlsen.
In addition, Rohlsen is also found in many different forms in its ancestral home of Germany. Other German variation include Röhlsen, Röhlsen, Röhlsohn, Rohlitz, Rohling, Rollsen, Röhl, and Rollmann. Rohlfs, a surname of Dutch and Frisian origin, is also derived from Rohlsen.
Rohlsen is a popular surname in many parts of Europe, but is especially prevalent in Germany, Denmark, Austria, Norway, and Sweden. It is also fairly common in other countries, including the Netherlands, the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Famous people with the name Rohlsen
- Cameron Rohlsen: Actor and model known for portraying the character of Jacob in the 2015 film Bleeders.
- Daniel Rohlsen: German rower who won gold in the coxless four event at the 2003 World Rowing Championships.
- Jakob Rohlsen: Professional tennis player from Denmark with two ATP Tour Challenger tournament singles titles to his name.
- Kirsten Rohlsen: Danish film actress best known for her appearance in the 2011 drama Waiting for Mona.
- Martin Rohlsen: Politician from the Danish party Venstre, who has served as a member of the Danish Parliament since 2011.
- Paul Rohlsen: Former professional American football center who played in the NFL during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
- Thomas Rohlsen: Danish television presenter and talk show host best known for hosting DR2 Late Night from 2008 to 2012.
- Tina Rohlsen: Danish film actress who appeared in the 2013 drama The Yeezus Tapes and the 2018 horror film Pretty Little Beasts.
- Oskar Rohlsen: Professional golfer from Germany who turned pro in 2017 and currently plays on the Challenge Tour.
- Niels Rohlsen: Danish alpine skier with nine starts in World Cup events since 2017.