Surname Schwenzel - Meaning and Origin
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Schwenzel: What does the surname Schwenzel mean?
The last name Schwenzel can be traced back to Germany, likely originating in Bavaria or the former German state of Prussia. It is derived from the German word 'schwen', which translates literally to 'swing'. The suffix '-zel' has its origins in the old German 'zelle' meaning 'small place' or 'cell'. Therefore, the name Schwenzel can be interpreted to mean 'a small place of swinging' or 'swinging cell'.
It is believed that the Schwenzel family initially used this name for a specific area on a family farm, where a swing was found. This area likely served as a place for the family to gather, providing a sense of unity and community within the family.
Though the exact time of origin remains unclear, genealogists and historians suggest that the Schwenzel family began in the 16th century as part of the noble families of Bavaria and Brandenburg. From there, the family dispersed across Europe and eventually the entire world. As one of the oldest family names in Germany, the name Schwenzel serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the family it represents.
Order DNA origin analysisSchwenzel: Where does the name Schwenzel come from?
The last name Schwenzel is relatively uncommon today, however it is most commonly found in German-speaking countries. The Schwenzel surname is of German origin and is first recorded in the area of Brandenburg, later Prussia, in the 13th century. In the 16th century, the name was written Zwichel, Schwichel, and Schwenzel.
The current spelling, Schwenzel, is more common in Germany as of today. There is an estimate of 3,438 individuals that share the last name throughout the country. Furthermore, the surname is also found in other European countries such as the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria. In the USA, it is most frequently found in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and New Jersey.
Additionally, the Schwenzel name may be found in other parts of the world including Eastern and Central Europe, North America, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. As of 2021, it is estimated that the Schwenzel surname is held by approximately 7,400 individuals throughout the world.
Variations of the surname Schwenzel
The surname Schwenzel is a variant of Swindall, Swinsell, and Swinney. It is believed to have originated in Germany. It is a variant of Schwenandt, which means “swallow” or “swan” in German.
Variants of Schwenzel include Szwenzel, Szwensel, Swedzel, Schweneel, Schwenk, Schwendel, and Schwener. These spellings are found in records dating back to as early as the 1600s.
Surnames with the root Schwenzel include Schwenk, Schwenke, Schwenkel, Schwenning, Schwenker, Schwencke, and Schwenzenbein.
The spelling Schwenzel is also found in records from the United States, such as census records, naturalization papers, and other documents. It is commonly found among families of German origin, particularly those who settled in Pennsylvania during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
It is believed that the surname Schwenzel originated from the German given name Schwendi, a nickname given to someone swift, agile, and perhaps even a bit of a showoff. It also has a connection with the German verb swindeln, which means to deceive or play a trick on someone.
The surname Schwenzel is one of many German surnames that were passed down through generations and transformed through a variety of spellings. It is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the German people, and a symbol of their rich heritage.
Famous people with the name Schwenzel
- Kevin Schwenzel: An American professional golfer and former college golfer from Pennsylvania who is now a mini-tour professional.
- Mathias Schwenzel: A German figure skater who competed internationally from 2007 to 2011.
- Rick Schwenzel: An American professional ice hockey player.
- René Schwenzel: A German lawyer and professor who is the dean of the University of Bonn's law faculty.
- Alexis Schwenzel: A German fashion model who walked for several high-profile fashion houses including Versace, Dior, and Chanel.
- Sarah Schwenzel: An American soccer player.
- Virginia Schwenzel: An American-born actress and film producer who appeared in several Hollywood films in the 1970s.
- Frank Schwenzel: An Austrian film actor who is known for his iconic role in the 1960s Austrian film classic The Seventh Brother.
- Benjamin Schwenzel: A German footballer who currently plays for SV Wehen Wiesbaden in the Bundesliga.
- Brian Schwenzel: An American professional baseball player who played in the Minor leagues from 1977 to 1981.