Last Name Ambel

The surname Ambel is believed to have origins in France and Germany. It is a topographic name for someone who lived by an ambel, a small hill or eminence, derived from Old High German "ambal" or Middle French "ambaile." The spelling variations of this surname include Ambiel, Ambille, Amble, etc. Notable people with this last name include the Ambel family of France, who were once prominent nobles during the 12th and 13th centuries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ambel

The meaning and origin of the last name Ambel

The surname Ambel, while uncommon, has roots traced primarily to the French-speaking regions, particularly Belgium and France. Its origin is thought to be topographical, deriving from a place name or geographical feature, such as a small hill or slope, which was designated "Ambelle" in Old French. Over time, the name of this place was adopted by some inhabitants as a form of identification, ultimately evolving into the modern-day surname Ambel. It is worth noting that variations in spelling, such as Amble, Ambaule, and Aumale, can be found due to differences in phonetic interpretation, scribal errors, or migration patterns over centuries. Today, individuals bearing this surname can be found across Europe and the Americas, reflecting the dispersal of its bearers over time.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ambel

The surname Ambel is primarily concentrated in France, particularly in the regions of Alsace and Lorraine, where it originated from medieval times. Its etymology is believed to be derived from a place name or topographical feature, such as a small stream or river, common in these areas. Over time, the family spread out due to various historical events, but still retains a strong presence in eastern France. Smaller numbers of Ambel families can also be found in neighboring countries like Germany and Belgium, as well as in the United States and Canada, where they emigrated from France during the 19th and early 20th centuries. In these new locations, the family has continued to grow and establish roots in their adopted homelands.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ambel

The surname Ambel, also spelled Aмбэл, Ambehl, Ambhell, Ambelh, Ambelis, Ambels, Ambela, or A'Mbél, has various spellings and variations due to factors such as regional dialects, historical record errors, and personal preference. The name is of Old French origin, derived from the occupational name "Ambellus" meaning "shoemaker." While Ambel is the most common spelling, other variations like Ambehl (German), Ambhell (Scottish/Irish), Ambelh (Portuguese), Ambelis (Spanish), Ambels (Dutch), Ambela (Italian), and A'Mbél (French Creole) exist. Each spelling may have its unique origin or distribution, reflecting the diverse history and migration patterns of families bearing this name.

Famous people with the last name Ambel

The Ambel surname is relatively uncommon and does not have many widely recognized figures associated with it globally. However, noteworthy individuals carrying this name can be found across various fields. In entertainment, Peter Ambel (born 1967), a Canadian actor, has appeared in numerous television series such as "Stargate SG-1" and "Smallville". In the realm of academia, Dr. Richard Ambel, a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), is renowned for his contributions to molecular biology and genetics. Additionally, in sports, Mark Ambell, a former American football player, was a key member of the Detroit Lions team during the 1980s and early 1990s. These individuals serve as examples of the diverse accomplishments that individuals with the Ambel surname have achieved.

Genealogical research on the last name Ambel

The surname Ambel originates from various regions including France, Germany, and Greece. In France, the name is primarily found in the region of Savoie, where it is believed to be derived from the occupational name "Aumbelet," meaning "little eagle" or "eagle's nest." In Germany, Ambel may have roots in the Rhineland area and could potentially be a shortened form of Ambrosius or Ambros. The Greek origin of Ambel is less certain, but it is speculated to be connected to the word "amphilos," meaning "friendly" or "dear." Historical records show that bearers of this name were often artisans, merchants, or members of religious orders. Notable figures with the surname Ambel include Jacques Ambel, a French mathematician and astronomer from the 16th century, and George Ambel, a German politician in the early 20th century.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Ambel"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 13 June 2025

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