Surname Schärfl - Meaning and Origin
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Schärfl: What does the surname Schärfl mean?
The surname Schärfl is of German origin and is likely derived from the word “schärf” which means to sharpen. It is possible that this name was given to someone who engaged in sharpening tools or weapons. This makes sense as during the Middle Ages, the idea of being able to “sharpen” something was an important skill.
The name is quite common in Germany, and can also be found in other western European countries. It is likely that Schärfl originated in Germany and spread to other parts of Europe during the time of migration.
The “Schärfl” family might have had a connection to a particular trade, profession, military or political position, or most likely had something to do with sharpening. This would make sense as sharpening is an important skill. They could have been blacksmiths, armorers, cutlers, or any number of other trades. It is also possible that the family has some association with nobility or higher positions in society due to their knowledge of a specialized craft.
Today, the Schärfl family is found all over the world. Despite its spread, the origin and meaning of the surname remain relatively unknown. This surname is associated with a time of craftsmanship and knowledge that goes back centuries, and it still stands as a testament to those families of the past.
Order DNA origin analysisSchärfl: Where does the name Schärfl come from?
The last name Schärfl is most commonly found today in Austria and Germany, two countries that have a long shared history and close cultural ties. The surname is especially common in the German-speaking region in Austria, where it is one of the five most popular surnames.
In Austria, the name is recorded as far back as 1317, when the first mention of a Schärfl in standards records occurs in the Styrian, a region in the southeast of the country. It is thought to originate in the city of Leoben in the same region, where the family coat of arms is on display today.
In Germany, the most populous of the two countries, the last name Schärfl is much less common. It is thought to have been brought to Germany by migrants from Austria or the neighboring countries, some of whom settled in the south German states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. The family history of Schärfls in Germany dates back to the 17th century, with the earliest records emerging in Württemberg.
Schärfl is still a familiar name in both countries, with members of the family demonstrating great pride in their name heritage. It is often particularly associated with themes relating to integrity, openness and reliability, ensuring that the name continues down the generations with honour.
Variations of the surname Schärfl
The surname Schärfl is a German locational name derived from the word 'schärfen', meaning ‘to sharpen’. It is believed to have been given to a person who lived in a place where tools were sharpened (near a river, a forge, etc.).
The surname is spelled in a variety of ways, including Schärfle, Schearfel, Scharf, Schärfel, Schaerfel, and Schaerfle. It can also be found in the form of Schärfler and Schärflin.
Variants of the name that are derived from the old German spelling are Scharfl, Scharfel and Scherfl. In terms of surnames with the same origin, one can find Scharfling, Scharffling and Scharfung, among others.
The surname Schärfl is not very common but is mainly found in Germany, Switzerland, Austria and other Germanic countries. Its ancient variation “Scheerfol” dates back as far as 1522 AD, when it was found in a document from Bavaria.
It is also possible to find this surname amongst immigrants from Germany who migrated to other countries, such as the United States and Canada. Several immigrants also helped bring the surname to Australia and some parts of South America.
The surname Schärfl is mostly associated with Protestant regions, particularly German-speaking areas in Europe. However, it can also be found amongst Jewish communities in some regions.
Famous people with the name Schärfl
- Andreas Schärfl, Austrian Olympic silver-medalist in rowing
- Bernadette Schärfl, Austrian photojournalist
- Gebhard Schärfl, Austrian ice hockey player
- Jan Schärfl, Austrian sprint canoer
- Georg Schärfl, Austrian politician from the Social Democratic Party
- Karl Schärfl, Austrian biologist and botanist
- Max Schärfl, Austrian painter
- Michael Schärfl, Austrian cross-country skier
- Walter Schärfl, Austrian football player
- Andreas Schärfl, Austrian luger