Surname Biehl - Meaning and Origin
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Journey of Discovering Lineage and Connections with iGENEA DNA Test: An Experience with Biehl Ancestry
Embarking on a journey of ancestral discovery, the iGENEA DNA test opens up an enlightening view into the inherited surname 'Biehl', enabling connections with unknown relatives through its extensive database. A compelling tale of history, lineage, and kinship unfolds.
H. Biehl
read moreBiehl: What does the surname Biehl mean?
Biehl is a German surname, originating from the northern part of the country. The exact meaning of the name is not precisely known; however, it is believed to have occupational or topographic roots. One theory is that it could be derived from "Beil", a German word for a type of axe or hatchet, implying an ancestor who was perhaps a woodsman or a soldier. Another theory suggests it might be a habitational name from any of the several places named Biehl or Bühel in Germany. Bühel translates to "hill" or "mountain" in English, indicating possible topographic origins for someone who lived on or near a hill. It's interesting to note that oftentimes, Germanic surnames reflect either the occupation, the location, or some noteworthy characteristic or event associated with the ancestors of the bearer. Therefore, the true meaning of Biehl could be subjective and dependent on individual family history.
Order DNA origin analysisBiehl: Where does the name Biehl come from?
The surname Biehl is of German origin and primarily associated with families in Northern and Western Germany. The name may have been derived from the Middle High German term "bühel," meaning "hill" or from "Bühler", a toponymic surname from any of the several places named Bühl in various regions of Germany. Therefore, the surname could have originally been used to denote someone living by a hill. Currently, the Biehl surname is spread across many countries around the world, particularly in the United States due to German immigration. Within the United States, it is more prevalent in states like Pennsylvania, California, and Ohio. It's also found in Germany, Brazil, and Canada, though on a smaller scale. However, relative to the size of their population, it is more common in the United States. Please note that demographics have shifted over time and modern distribution can be influenced by many factors.
Variations of the surname Biehl
The surname Biehl primarily originates from Germany and in some cases, it may have Jewish Ashkenazic connections.
The surname has seen various modifications and spelling variants throughout history due to different regional spellings, local dialects and even individual interpretation. Some of the potential versions of Biehl include Biel, Biehle, Bieler, Bielen, Biehler, Biehlmann, and Biehle.
There are also instances where the name might be modified upon immigration to different countries. For example, the French might pronounce and subsequently spell the surname as "Biel" or "Beel".
Similar sounding surnames might also be of the same origin such as Behl, which is a variant form of the surname Biehl, mostly found among people with descent from northern Germany. Other similar surnames include Buhl and Bühl, which are predominantly South German surnames, named after a variety of places called Bühl or Buhlhof.
The surname Beal, which is primarily English, can also sometimes be confused with Biehl, but it is of different origin, deriving from an Old English term for a "hall".
In summary, the surnames and spellings related to Biehl could include, but are not limited to, Biel, Biehle, Bieler, Bielen, Behl, Buhl, Bühl, and Biehler. Each variant may carry its own unique origins and history.
Famous people with the name Biehl
- Amy Biehl: An American activist who was murdered in South Africa.
- Fredda Biehl: A well-known activist, especially known for her work in human rights. She is the mother of Amy Biehl.
- Peter Biehl: An American diplomat and father of late Amy Biehl.
- Alfred Biehl: A Danish composer and conductor.
- Martin Biehl: An American racing driver.
- Doug Biehl: A former American football player.
- Jennifer Biehl: A popular American actress.
- Harri Biehl: A well-known German ice hockey player.
- Linda Biehl: An American social justice activist and the co-founder of the Amy Biehl Foundation.
- Jacob Biehl: An American computer scientist.
- Monika Biehl: A German former cyclist.
- Christian Biehl: A Swedish football player. Please note that the popularity or fame of these individuals may vary based on regional interests and expertise fields.