Surname Sprankel - Meaning and Origin

Sprankel: What does the surname Sprankel mean?

The last name "Sprankel" does not have a widely recognized meaning as it seems to be quite unique and less common. It could potentially originate from the Dutch or German language, in which "sprankel" means to sparkle or twinkle. Therefore, metaphorically, it could refer to someone who brings light, energy, or vibrancy. However, it is crucial to note that meanings of surnames can be complex and nuanced, often influenced by factors such as regional dialects, ancestral trades, or geographical locations. Thus, without a comprehensive study, it could be challenging to precisely determine the meaning of the surname "Sprankel." As with many last names, it is possible that Sprankel could be a variant or regional spelling of another surname, thereby holding a less obvious significance. To gain a definitive understanding, those interested might consider researching genealogical records or seeking the guidance of a historical linguist or cultural anthropologist.

Sprankel: Where does the name Sprankel come from?

The last name Sprankel can be found in countries all over the world, but is more common in certain places. In the United States, the name is most prominent in the Midwestern region, with the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Sprankel living in Wisconsin. Within the state, the highest concentration of individuals is located in Dodge, Grant, and Dane Counties.

The surname also appears in England, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, and Austria. It is found most commonly in the south-western and western border states of Germany, however it is also located in central German states like Thuringia and Bavaria.

The Sprankel family name has been traced all the way back to the 13th century in Germany. The word has roots in Old German and means “to speak” or “to command,” which is most likely related to the name's original bearer's occupation or personality. The original spelling of the name was either Sprankel or Sprankil.

Most of the people with the last name Sprankel today are descendants of the original families from centuries ago. Many can trace their genealogy back to the first Sprankel individuals who lived in Germany. Some members of the family immigrated to the United States in the 19th century and spread out across the continent, mostly settling in the Midwest.

Variations of the surname Sprankel

The surname Sprankel is of German origin and is a variant of the name Sprankle. It is an occupational surname, originating from an old German word meaning ‘groove’ or ‘notch’. Over time, the name has evolved to include a variety of variants, spellings, and surnames.

Variants include Sprankle, Sprenkel, Sprinkel, Spankel, Sprenkle, Sprangle, Sprenckle, Sprenkal, Sprenchle, Sprinkle, Sprankle, Sprenkele, Spranklin, Spoinkle, Sprenkal, and Sprunkle.

Spellings may be said as Sprankle or Sprangle.

Surnames of the same origin include Spranker, Sprankles, Sprinks, Sprinck, Sprinkle, Spronkal, Sprenkle, Spranklin, Sprons, Sprimble, Spurgeon, Spurier, Sproh, Sprouse, and Spruile.

The original form of the name was sprancken, which in the Middle Ages was a word used to refer to small, shallow, tiered trenches, like those found in a vineyard. This term was used to describe someone who carved or built such trenches, and as such, it became an occupational surname.

Over the years, the name has been found in a variety of countries and in different spellings. Depending on the area, the surname Sprankel may have had a slightly different pronunciation, spelling and meaning. Today it is found most commonly in Germany, the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands.

Famous people with the name Sprankel

• Charles L. Sprankel: A former television news anchor and reporter.
• Jason Sprankel: An American director and cinematographer.
• Kendra Sprankel: A professional basketball player.
• Robert Sprankel: A former American professional basketball player.
• Rose Marie Sprankel: An American actress and comedian famous for her roles in the sitcom The Dick Van Dyke Show.
• Karah Sprankel: A professional snowboarder and four-time X Games gold medalist.
• David Sprankel: A former American college basketball coach and player.
• Jennifer Sprankel: An American producer and screenwriter.
• Paul Sprankel: A former American football player.
• Douglas Sprankel: An American lawyer and former federal regulator.

Other surnames

Sprankle