Surname Pimble - Meaning and Origin
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Pimble: What does the surname Pimble mean?
The last name Pimble is believed to be of English origin, with a few possible origin stories. The original meaning of the name is thought to come from the Old English pre 7th Century and could mean either 'the dweller by the peach tree', or 'a timber enclosure'. It is also thought that the name may have been derived from a combination of two Old English words, 'pyle', meaning 'a wall built around a property for protection' and 'ham', meaning home.
The name could also be a diminutive of the pre 10th century personal name Pym which is believed to have been derived from the Anglo-Saxon word 'puma', a short form of 'pumph', which means 'an enclosure'. This would have been given as a nickname for someone who lived in a defensive walled settlement. Similarly, it is possible that the name could be derived from the Old French 'pomme', which translates as 'apple', describing someone who lived near an apple tree orchard.
Overall, the meaning behind the last name Pimble is uncertain. However, the most likely origins of the name can be traced back to several different sources in England with possible meanings ranging from those of an apple orchard dweller to one who was protected by defensive walls.
Order DNA origin analysisPimble: Where does the name Pimble come from?
The last name Pimble is most commonly found in the United States of America. According to the Social Security Administration, there are approximately 5,500 people with the last name Pimble living in the United States today. Most of these people or their ancestors originated from England, Scotland, or Northern Ireland. Pimble is an unusual and unique last name. It is not often seen in other parts of the world. In certain states such as Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New York, and New Jersey, the last name Pimble is very common.
Pimble is generally thought of as a patronymic surname, which means it originated from the father’s given name. The name itself is derived from the Middle English word “pimble” meaning “craftsman”. Therefore,the original bearer of the surname Pimble was likely a skilled craftsman or tradesman.
The Pimble family has a rich history of being involved in various occupations. Records of the family indicate that Pimbles have served in the military, worked as carpenters, masons, or merchants, and held civil appointments such as sheriffs and justices of the peace. They have also been involved in the building trade, mining, and agriculture.
Today, the Pimbles remain closely knit with stories of their brave ancestors being passed down through the generations. Although not as common as it once was, the Pimble last name is still found in many places in the United States and throughout the world.
Variations of the surname Pimble
The surname Pimble has a few variants and spellings as well as surnames of the same origin. The common variants and spellings are Pimbel, Pymble, Pimble and Pimbl.
Pimbel and Pimbl are believed to have originated from the German spelling of the same name, Pimpel. 'Pim' is a Dutch or German diminutive of 'Johannes', John, or 'Phillip'. The addition of 'bel' or 'bl' may mean 'beautiful'. It could also be derived from the local dialects and language 'Pist' (Dutch) or 'Pil' (German) which means ‘pie’.
Pymble is a variation of the surname. It's origins can be traced to the 16th century Norman name 'Rouvel' or 'Rovoel'. This has developed to 'Pouvel via Rouball, Rauball, and Ruball. The addition of the ‘y’ is common in many areas of the British Isles such as London and Lancashire giving us 'Rauballe', which eventually became 'Pimball'.
Pimble is the most common spelling of this name today, and was likely derived from the Old French 'Pimel' or 'Pomel'. 'Pimel' is said to mean 'apple' while 'Pomel' likely derived from 'Pomeau/Pomaul', which also meant 'apple'. It is believed that the origins of this surname lie in a 'symbolic reference' to the fruit.
The surnames Lifp, Pembleton, Pemblin, Pimblett, Pimblott, and Pomel are few other similar surnames which most likely originated from Pimble.
Famous people with the name Pimble
- Cat Pimble: Cat Pimble is a British-born singer, songwriter and performer. She was the lead singer of rock band tooROOTS and has released two solo albums.
- Amelie Pimble: Amelie Pimble is a French soul and jazz singer and composer, known for her energetic performances.
- Dru Pimble: Dru Pimble is an American artist, best known for her vibrant paintings.
- Elsie Pimble: Elsie Pimble is a Canadian documentary filmmaker and photographer, whose work has been screened at festivals and galleries around the world.
- Barry Pimble: Barry Pimble is a British rock & roll singer, best known for his song "No Man's Land".
- David Pimble: David Pimble is an American actor and musician, best known for his role as Officer David in the TV series The Wire.
- Mick Pimble: Mick Pimble is an Australian professional indoor soccer player who plays for the Newcastle Wave in the Australian NSL.
- Ben Pimble: Ben Pimble is an American hip-hop artist from Cleveland, Ohio.
- Aimee Pimble: Aimee Pimble is a British illustrator and cartoonist, best known for her work in the popular Jamie and Jazz comic books.
- Trey Pimble: Trey Pimble is an American Olympic swimmer, who competed at the 2016 Games in Rio.