Last Name Fievel

The surname Fievel is of German origin and it comes from a variant of the given name Peter. It is derived from the medieval Germanic name "Petar" or "Pieter," which means "rock" or "stone." Over time, various spellings have arisen due to translation and regional differences, with Fievel being one such variation. This surname was brought to North America by early German settlers.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Fievel

The meaning and origin of the last name Fievel

The surname Fievel is of German origin, specifically from the region of Bavaria. It derives from the Middle High German word "Veil" or "Feil," which means "arrow." This name was originally a nickname for someone who was swift and agile, like an arrow, or perhaps for a skilled archer. Over time, the surname evolved to its current form, Fievel. The name has been variously spelled as Feivel, Fivel, and other variations due to linguistic and transcription changes over centuries. Notably, Fievel is best known as the main character in the animated film "An American Tail" (1986).

Geographical distribution of the last name Fievel

The surname Fievel is predominantly of German and Jewish origin, with variations such as Feivel, Feuell, and Feyville also found. Geographically, its highest concentration can be traced back to Germany, particularly the region of Baden-Württemberg. Other significant populations are present in other parts of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and France due to historical migration patterns. In the United States, New York City has a notable number of individuals with the surname Fievel, likely due to immigration from Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Smaller populations can also be found in other countries such as Canada, Israel, Australia, and South Africa.

Variants and spellings of the last name Fievel

The surname Fievel has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transliteration and transcription across languages and time periods. Some common variants include Feivel, Fijvel, Fivel, and Fiebel. These variations may stem from regional dialects or errors in record keeping over the centuries. In Yiddish, the name is often spelled פיעוול (Pi'uvl), while in German it can be written as Fiebel, Feibel, or Pfefferl, depending on the specific dialect and transcription method used. Additionally, variations may arise due to assimilation into different cultural contexts, where names are sometimes anglicized, Americanized, or otherwise modified to conform with local naming conventions.

Famous people with the last name Fievel

The Fievel family is notably recognized for one prominent member, Anatole Fiennes, also known professionally as Ralph Fiennes. He is an acclaimed English actor and film director, best known for his roles in films such as "Schindler's List," "Harry Potter" series, and "The Grand Budapest Hotel." In these films, he has portrayed a diverse range of characters, earning him several prestigious awards including an Academy Award nomination. Although there may be other individuals with the last name Fievel, Anatole Fiennes' significant contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his fame.

Genealogical research on the last name Fievel

The surname Fievel originates from Germany and is believed to have derived from various locations including Fieve, near Hamminkeln, and Fiefel, near Hannover. The name can be traced back to the late Middle Ages, with the earliest known records dating to the 15th century. The Fievel family was primarily located in the Westphalia region of Germany, with some branches spreading to the Netherlands and later migrating to other countries due to historical events such as religious conflicts and economic opportunities. Notable individuals bearing the name Fievel include Hermann Fievel (1847-1907), a German politician who served in the Reichstag; and Annette Funicello, whose mother was born as Virginia Fievel. The surname Fievel has also been anglicized as Feivel or Fivel in some cases.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "fievel"
• 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 : 29 July 2025

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