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Last Name Ehlinger

What is the origin of the last name Ehlinger?

The surname Ehlinger is of German origin. It derives from a place name in Germany, specifically from any of several places called "Eilinger" or "Ahlinger". These places share a common etymology that can be traced back to the Old High German word "ahlaih," which means "eagle clearing." Thus, people bearing the surname Ehlinger likely originated from an area with a notable eagle-related feature. The spelling variants of this name in different regions and times include Ahlenger, Ahleringer, Eilinger, Aehlinger, and others.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ehlinger

The meaning and origin of the last name Ehlinger

The surname Ehlinger is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German "Eilinger," which translates to "oiler" or "maker of oil." It is an occupational name for someone who was involved in the production or trade of oil or fat. The suffix "-er" indicates that the original bearer of this name was a craftsman or tradesperson specializing in this field. The name could also have been given to someone who lived near an oil press or mill, indicating a topographical origin. Ehlinger is now widely spread throughout Germany, Austria, and the United States, where it was brought by German immigrants. Notable individuals with this surname include football player Brandon Ehlinger and musician Chris Ehringer.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ehlinger

The last name Ehlinger is predominantly found in Central Europe, particularly Germany and Austria. According to the FamilyNamesDatabase, it originated as a locational name for someone from the village of Eilhingen in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, or Eilingen in Carinthia, Austria. The name has also been recorded in Switzerland and the United States, reflecting European immigration patterns. In the U.S., the highest concentrations are in states with strong German American communities such as Texas, Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, and Illinois.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ehlinger

The surname Ehlinger can have various spellings and variations, including: Ehlinger, Aehlinger, Aehlinger, Ahlinger, Ehlinger, Aehler, Ehler, Eihler, Ahler, Eiler, Aylmer, and Aylemer. These differences in spelling may arise from regional dialects, transcription errors, or intentional modifications over time. The root of the name is likely Germanic, with "ahal" meaning "noble" or "eagle," and "-inger" indicating a farmer or someone who lived on a farmstead. Variations often reflect changes in pronunciation, orthographic norms, and cultural influences throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Ehlinger

Notable individuals with the last name Ehlinger include Spencer Rattler, an American football player who plays as the quarterback for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. He was named the Big 12 Conference Offensive Freshman of the Year in 2020. Another prominent figure is Sam Ehlinger, a former college football quarterback who played for the University of Texas at Austin from 2017 to 2020. In his collegiate career, he set numerous school records and was named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019. Additionally, there is Chris Ehlinger, a retired American football player who played as a defensive end for five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings (1975-1979) and one season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1980). Chris was selected by the Vikings in the first round of the 1975 NFL Draft, 16th overall.

Genealogical research on the last name Ehlinger

The surname Ehlinger originates from Germanic roots, specifically the Old High German name "Ahlaha," which means "noble elf." The spelling variation to Ehlinger evolved over time due to regional dialects and historical document transcriptions.

The Ehlingers can be traced back to medieval Germany, particularly in regions such as Baden-Württemberg, Saxony, and Thuringia. One of the earliest known Ehlinger ancestors was Conrad Ahlaha, born around 1250 in Worms, Rheinhessen, who served as a knight during the High Middle Ages.

Over subsequent centuries, the family migrated to various parts of Europe, including France, Austria, and Switzerland, with some Ehlingers settling in the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. Notable descendants include George H. Ehlinger, a U.S. Army colonel who served during World War I, and Robert Ehlinger, a renowned American artist who exhibited extensively in Europe and the United States.

Today, there are estimated to be tens of thousands of Ehlingers worldwide, with significant populations found in Germany, the United States, France, Austria, and Switzerland. Genealogical research continues to uncover additional information about the Ehlinger family's history and lineage.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 12 June 2025

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