What is the origin of the last name Barthel?

The surname Barthel is of German origin. It originated as a diminutive form of the personal name Bartholomew, which itself is of Aramaic origin meaning "son of Tolmai." The surname Barthel likely developed as a patronymic surname, indicating a descendant or son of someone named Bartholomew. Over time, Barthel became a hereditary surname that passed down through generations. Today, it continues to be found mainly in German-speaking regions but can also be seen in various parts of the world due to migration and globalization.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Barthel

The meaning and origin of the last name Barthel

The surname Barthel is a patronymic surname derived from the given name "Bartholomew" which means "son of Bartholomew." The name Bartholomew itself has Hebrew origins, derived from the Aramaic name "Bar-Talmay" meaning "son of Talmay" or "son of furrows." The name Bartholomew holds biblical significance, as Bartholomew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Over time, patronymic surnames like Barthel became common as a way to distinguish individuals within a community and to honor their ancestral lineage. The surname Barthel has been found across various European countries, including Germany, France, and Switzerland, with variations such as Bartel, Bartels, or Bartelsen. As with many surnames, the spelling and pronunciation may have evolved or changed over generations due to regional dialects or immigration patterns.

Geographical distribution of the last name Barthel

The last name Barthel has a primarily Germanic origin, and its geographical distribution reflects this heritage. The name is most commonly found in Germany, where it is ranked within the top 5,000 surnames. Within Germany, Barthel is prevalent across several regions, including Bavaria, Saxony, and Thuringia. It is also relatively common in Luxembourg, Belgium, and parts of France, reflecting historical migration patterns and the shared linguistic and cultural ties among these countries and regions. In the United States, the Barthel surname is less common but still present, primarily concentrated in states with significant German immigrant populations, such as Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Barthel aligns with regions historically connected to the Germanic culture and migration patterns, both within Europe and internationally.

Variants and spellings of the last name Barthel

The last name Barthel has a few variations and spellings, showcasing the diversity of its origins. One possible variation is "Bartel," where the "h" at the end is removed, resulting in a more concise version of the name. Another alternative could be "Barthele," incorporating an additional "e" at the end, giving it a slightly different sound. Furthermore, the name might also appear as "Barthle," where the "e" is omitted. Other less common variations include "Barttel" or "Barthell," which may reflect regional or personal preferences. These different spellings and variations could have arisen due to factors such as immigration, language variations, or simply due to individuals adopting different versions of the name over time. Regardless of the chosen spelling or variation, the name Barthel continues to represent a diverse and rich lineage, highlighting the uniqueness of each individual and their ancestral heritage.

Famous people with the last name Barthel

One famous person with the last name Barthel is Sarah Barthel, an American musician and singer. She is best known as one half of the electronic rock duo, Phantogram, alongside her childhood friend Josh Carter. Barthel has contributed significantly to their success, with her ethereal and captivating vocals, while also playing various instruments such as keyboards and synthesizers. Their unique sound has gained them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. Another notable figure with the last name Barthel is Dave Barthel, an American professional ice hockey player. He played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) and was known for his physicality and strong defensive skills. Barthel had a successful career, playing for various teams before retiring and leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of ice hockey.

Genealogical research on the last name Barthel

The last name Barthel is a German surname that has a rich history and interesting genealogy. It is derived from the given name Bartholomew, which itself became a popular name in Germany during the Middle Ages. The name Barthel can be traced back to the early 14th century, with records showing its usage in various regions of Germany, such as Bavaria, Saxony, and Thuringia. Over time, individuals with the surname Barthel migrated and settled in different parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa. Many Barthel families have maintained their German heritage and have contributed to various fields such as art, science, and business. Genealogical research on the last name Barthel continues to uncover fascinating stories and connections within this diverse and active family tree.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

NomOrigine Team
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 :

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names