
The last name Coffelt is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Coffa" or "Cobba," which was a nickname for a stout or plump person. The "t" at the end of the name indicates the patronymic meaning "son of." Therefore, Coffelt means "son of Coffa" or "son of Cobba." Over time, this personal name turned into a surname, and individuals with the last name Coffelt are believed to be descendants of someone who was once known as Coffa or Cobba.
The surname Coffelt is of German origin and derived from the personal name Jacob, itself derived from the Hebrew name Yaakov, which means "supplanter" or "follower." Over time, the name Jacob evolved into several variations and spellings, including Kobel, Kabel, Koffel, and eventually Coffelt. The surname Coffelt usually indicates a Germanic heritage and can be traced back to the medieval period when surnames were adopted to distinguish individuals. It is believed that the Coffelt family originated from the German-speaking region, possibly around present-day Germany or Austria. As people migrated and settled in different parts of the world, variations in the spelling of the surname emerged. Today, individuals with the surname Coffelt are found predominantly in the United States, particularly in states like Virginia, West Virginia, and Ohio, where German immigrants and their descendants established their homes.
The last name Coffelt is not particularly common, and its geographical distribution is relatively limited. The majority of individuals with the surname Coffelt can be found in the United States, especially in the southern states such as Tennessee, Texas, and Alabama. These regions have historically been home to many Coffelt families, with some tracing their roots back to German and Scottish origins. The name can also be found in smaller numbers in other parts of the United States and in some neighboring countries such as Canada and Mexico. While there may be a few scattered individuals with the last name Coffelt in other parts of the world, the concentration of the name remains in the United States, particularly in the southern states.
The variations and spellings of the last name Coffelt can be found in a few different forms. Firstly, the most common spelling is Coffelt, which is a straightforward representation of the name. However, there are a few alternative spellings that have also been recorded. Some variants include Coffeltt, Cofelt, and Cofelte. These variations may occur due to regional dialects, personal preference, or historical transcription errors. Additionally, it is worth noting that surnames often undergo changes over time, particularly when families migrate to different regions or countries. Thus, one might encounter further variations such as Koffelt, Kaufelt, or even Cofield, as different individuals attempt to adapt or anglicize the name. These alternative forms add to the richness and diversity of surnames, showcasing the unique trajectories and histories of families who bear the Coffelt name.
There are no widely recognized famous individuals with the last name Coffelt. The Coffelt surname does not appear to be associated with any prominent figures in history, entertainment, sports, or other fields. While there may be individuals with this surname who have achieved personal accomplishments or made noteworthy contributions in their respective domains, their level of recognition does not seem to reach the general public or global prominence. It is essential to recognize that fame is relative and context-dependent, and there might be notable individuals with the last name Coffelt within specific communities or regional spheres, but not on a widely known scale.
The genealogical research on the last name Coffelt traces its origins back to Germany. The name Coffelt is believed to be of Germanic origin, specifically derived from the Old High German word "kohal," meaning "coal." It is a surname that likely originated as an occupational name, given to individuals who worked with coal or were associated with the coal industry. The Coffelt surname eventually made its way to the United States, specifically to the state of Pennsylvania, during the 18th and 19th centuries. Many Coffelt families settled in Pennsylvania, particularly in the coal-rich region of the state, where they continued their work in the coal industry. Over the years, the Coffelt name has spread across the United States, with numerous branches and descendants of the original Coffelt families. Today, individuals with the Coffelt surname can be found in various states across the country, and their family history continues to be researched and documented by genealogists and family historians.
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