Surname Sorrel - Meaning and Origin
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Sorrel: What does the surname Sorrel mean?
Sorrel is a surname of French origin, derived from the Old French term 'sorel' meaning 'reddish brown.' This name was typically used as a nickname for someone with reddish-brown hair or a ruddy complexion. Additionally, it can also refer to a type of plant (Rumex acetosa) with green leaves and a slightly acidic taste, commonly used in salads or soups. The name Sorrel, therefore, carries an association with nature and distinct color. Like many surnames, it began as a moniker to differentiate individuals with common first names and eventually became passed down through generations as a family name. The surname Sorrel is not extensively common and is found in more considerable concentrations in France amongst French-speaking populations.
Order DNA origin analysisSorrel: Where does the name Sorrel come from?
The last name "Sorrel" is common in many countries today, including France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. In France, the surname has Germanic origins, and is mainly found in the Normandy region. In the United Kingdom, people with the last name originate from either France, Germany, or the Netherlands. In the United States, the surname is most commonly found around certain areas of Pennsylvania and the Midwest, suggesting German and Dutch origins. The name is also present in Canada, mainly within Ontario, and is again believed to have a Germanic origin.
In the US the surname ranks as the 5,118th most common surname according to the US Census Bureau's 2020 survey. In France, the name ranks as the 6,645th most common surname according to the French Institute for National Statistics 2018 survey and in the UK it is the 4,066th most common name according to the Office of National Statistics 2020 survey.
The etymological origin of the surname means "aur-red" or "sandy-haired" in German, suggesting that the original holders of the last name had red or sandy hair. Additionally, over time, the meanings of the surname have broadened to include relationships which could include any connection to foxes or to the herb sorrel.
Overall, the last name "Sorrel" is common in a variety of countries and continues to be found in all four of the countries mentioned above. The surname is believed to have Germanic origins and suggests a connection to foxes or to the herb sorrel.
Variations of the surname Sorrel
Sorrel is a surname that has several variants and spellings from various languages and countries. In Anglo-Norman England, its spellings were written as Sorrell, Sorrel, Sorel, Sorell. In Latin, its spelling was Sorella and Sorilla. In Ireland, it is spelled as O'Sorghail, O'Sorghal, and O'Sorrell. In France, it was Soroveau and Sourouau. In Spanish, its spelling is Sorolla. In Russia, its spellings include Surkov and Surko. In Germany, variants of the surname include Zurkerd and Zirkel. In Poland, it is spelled as Szurko.
Variants in other countries include Syrrell in Scotland, Surla, Surli in Croatia, Szuraka in Hungary, Sirkaite in Lithuania, Sirlu in Romania, Srulovic in Serbia, Surla in Czech Republic, and Syrilla in Finland.
Many of these variations may be linked to the contraction of sorrel, a term used to refer to either the herb or a type of reddish-brown horse. The herb derives its name from the Anglo-Norman 'sauriolle' and the Old French 'sorueille' meaning 'acrid', which is fitting as the plant is known for its tart flavor.
Famous people with the name Sorrel
- Baboucarr Sorrel: Baboucarr is a professional footballer from The Gambia.
- Edward Sorrel: Edward Sorrel was an American politician and a Confederate congressman from Georgia.
- Mary Sorrel: Mary Sorrel is an actress from Australia.
- John Sorrel: John Sorrel is a professional tennis player from the United Kingdom.
- David Sorrel: David Sorrel is a professional BMX racer from France.
- Jerry Sorrel: Jerry Sorrel is an actor from Canada.
- Sarah Sorrel: Sarah Sorrel is a professional photographer from the United States.
- Mike Sorrel: Mike Sorrel is a former NBA player from the USA.
- Mark Sorrel: Mark Sorrel is a sound engineer from South Africa.
- Jean-Pierre Sorrel: Jean-Pierre Sorrel is a French composer and musician.