Surname Hermel - Meaning and Origin
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Hermel: What does the surname Hermel mean?
The last name Hermel is of French origin and is derived from the Germantical word hirmel which means armour, shield or protection. The name is thought to have originated from the Middle Ages as a nickname for a person who was particularly strong and courageous and was a symbol of protection. The first recorded use of the surname Hermel dates back to 1220 in France.
The name has also spread to France's neighbouring countries and further afield, with evidence of its usage in Germany, Austria and Poland amongst others. In those countries, it is thought to refer to someone who is hardworking or ambitious.
Today, the name is still found throughout France, Germany and Austria, as well as in the United States, Canada and the UK. It is an uncommon name, although variants such as Hermelle, Hermelin and Hermer can also be found. The name denotes a strong character and may indicate someone who is especially brave and courageous.
In terms of the literal meaning of the name, Hermel can refer to a protector, a quality that anyone bearing the name is likely to pride themselves on. Family and friends are sure to feel safe in the presence of a Hermel.
Order DNA origin analysisHermel: Where does the name Hermel come from?
The last name Hermel is common in France, particularly in the north of the country, as well as in parts of Germany. It is most frequent in the regions of Lorraine and Champagne-Ardenne in France. These two regions are located along the northern border of the country and share a common language, German, in addition to French.
The origins of the Hermel name are likely derived from the ancient Germanic word “heri,” which translated to “army.” The suffix “mel” may also have been added to indicate a group or a family.
The Hermel name can also be found in other European countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Austria. It is likely that there were some settlers bearing the Hermel name who moved to these countries some time ago.
In the United States, the name Hermel is much less common. According to the US Census Bureau, approximately 0.0002 percent of the population or about 95 people bear the name Hermel. Those bearing the name are primarily concentrated in mid-Atlantic and Southern states such as Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Virginia.
In short, the last name Hermel is most common in the northern regions of France and Germany, as well as other European countries. It can also be encountered in the United States, although it is much rarer.
Variations of the surname Hermel
The surname Hermel is of German, French, and Czech origin. Variants, spellings, and related surnames include Herrman, Herrmann, Herman, Hermon, Hermo, Hermann, Harman, Ermel, Hermal, Hermalin, Harmin, Harmina, and Hermle.
The earliest German variant of the name Hermel is Herrman, which dates back to the 15th century in Germany. This variant is derived from the word “heri” which means army, and “man” the person. This surname likely referred to a soldier or a man from a military background. The name can also have a connection to the biblical figure Herman, the King of Israel.
The surname Herman can also be found in France and Czech with variants including Hermon, Hermalin, and Harmin. The French variants derived from the Latin word “herimannus” which was a name used to refer to an individual of sacred character. By contrast, the Czech variants often referred to an individual from a bohemian, or Bohemia.
More modern variants of Hermel can be found in the German incarnations of Hermo and Hermle. Both variants are derived from the Middle High German word “herm” which can mean soldier or warrior. The surname even has one modern variant, Harman, which is an Anglicized version.
Overall, Hermel is an incredibly versatile surname with many variant spellings and related surnames across German, French and Czech origins.
Famous people with the name Hermel
- François Hermel: French actor most known for appearing in films like Les Hommes Ne Comprennent Pas Tout Seuls and La Petite Sauvage.
- Josef Hermel: Austrian professional tennis player who is best known for winning the Austrian Open doubles title in 1968.
- Henri Hermel: French fencing champion who won two gold medals at the world championships in 1937.
- Sören Hermel: German international rugby union player who plaeyd in various European tournaments.
- Pius Hermel: Austrian artist who was a member of the Vienna Secession movement.
- Ernst Hermel: German composer who wrote numerous pieces for the piano during the romantic period.
- Théo Hermel: Belgian footballer who played for Standard Liège in the Belgian top division.
- Michael Hermel: American political analyst who wrote several books on the Middle East.
- John Hermel: Canadian author best known for his works on international relations and his translations of French writers.
- Florian Hermel: French painter from the 19th century. He was best known for his landscapes and was a prominent figure in Bordeaux.