Last Name Griffel

Learn more about the origin of the last name Griffel

The meaning and origin of the last name Griffel

The surname Griffel is primarily of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "grif(f)el," which means "crab." It is an occupational name for a crab fisherman or a metonymic occupation name for someone who made articles from crabs' shells. In medieval Europe, such names were often associated with a specific trade, craft, or location. The name has also been found in the Netherlands and Belgium due to migration and historical connections between these regions. Over time, variations of the name, such as Griffel-s, Griffel, Grafel, and others, have emerged due to phonetic changes and regional dialects.

Geographical distribution of the last name Griffel

The last name Griffel is predominantly found in German-speaking regions, particularly Germany and Switzerland, due to its origins from the Old High German 'grifo' or 'gryfo', meaning griffin, a mythical creature with the body, tail, and back legs of a lion, and the head and wings of an eagle. The name was first recorded in the Middle Ages, spreading throughout these regions as families bearing the surname migrated, settled, or expanded their territories. Over time, people with the Griffel surname also appeared in other parts of Europe such as France, Belgium, and the Netherlands due to migration, historical events, and trade routes. In more recent times, individuals with this last name can be found in North America and Australia, primarily among German and European immigrants.

Variants and spellings of the last name Griffel

The surname Griffel can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common spelling variations include Griffel, Griffl, Grafel, Grafehl, and Graffel. These variations may also appear in different regions or countries, reflecting the migration of individuals bearing this surname. The root name "Griffel" is likely derived from Old German or Old Norse origin, with possible meanings such as "griffin" or "quill pen". It's important to note that these spelling variations may have different pronunciations and can be found in different genealogical records.

Famous people with the last name Griffel

Notable individuals with the surname Griffel include:

1. Robert S. Griffin, an American politician who served as the mayor of Kansas City, Missouri from 2007 to 2011.

2. Thomas H. Griffith, a federal judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

3. John Griffith, a British theoretical physicist and professor at the University of Cambridge, known for his research in quantum field theory, particle physics, and cosmology.

4. Katherine Griffith, an American actress who has appeared in films such as "The Great Gatsby" (1974) and "Escape from Alcatraz" (1979).

5. Chris Griffith, a former Zimbabwean cricketer who played for the national team between 1982 and 1993. He is recognized as one of the fastest bowlers in cricket history.

6. Gail Griffin, an American singer-songwriter best known for her hit single "I Ain't Never" in the late 1970s.

Each of these individuals has made significant contributions in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Griffel

The surname Griffel is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German "grif" meaning "crane" or "griffin," and "wel" meaning "meadow." Early records show that the name was first documented in the region of Westphalia, Germany, where many bearers of the surname still reside today. Some notable Griffels include Heinrich Griffel, a prominent politician in the Holy Roman Empire during the 16th century; and Johannes Griffel, a composer and organist who served at several prestigious churches in Hamburg in the 18th century. The name was also brought to America by early German immigrants, primarily settling in Pennsylvania and other mid-Atlantic states in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Today, the Griffel family can be found worldwide, with significant populations in Germany, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Griffel"
• 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 : 23 July 2025