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Last Name Ingels

What is the origin of the last name Ingels?

The origin of the last name "Ingels" is believed to be from Dutch or German origins. It is derived from the personal name "Engel", meaning "angel" in both languages. Over time, the surname "Ingels" would have been derived from the patronymic form of "Engel", indicating "son of Engel".

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Ingels

The meaning and origin of the last name Ingels

The surname Ingels is derived from the Germanic personal name "Ingel," which is a form of the Old High German "Ingilo." The name "Ingel" itself comes from the Germanic word "Ingwio," meaning "angel" or "messenger of God." It is believed that this Germanic name originally referred to an individual who was known for their piousness or had a close association with religious matters. The surname Ingels is of ancient origin, dating back to medieval times. It is primarily found in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, where it may have originated. Over the years, variations of Ingels have also emerged, such as Ingles in English-speaking countries. The surname has likely undergone phonetic changes and modifications as it spread across different regions and dialects. Today, individuals with the surname Ingels can be found worldwide, representing the historical ties and migratory patterns of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ingels

The last name Ingels has a relatively limited geographical distribution, with its highest concentration found in the Flanders region of Belgium. This region, located in the northern part of the country, is home to a significant number of individuals bearing the Ingels surname. Furthermore, there are smaller populations of Ingels individuals in neighboring regions, such as the Netherlands and France. Outside of Europe, the Ingels name is less prevalent; however, there are still individuals with this last name residing in countries like the United States and Australia, often descended from ancestors who emigrated from Europe. Overall, while the majority of individuals with the Ingels surname are concentrated in Flanders, there exist scattered populations across different continents as a result of migrations over the years.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ingels

The last name "Ingels" has a few variations and alternative spellings that have been used throughout history. One common variation is "Ingalls," which is especially prevalent in the United States. This spelling was popularized by the famous author Laura Ingalls Wilder, known for her "Little House" series of books. Another variation is "Ingles," which is seen in both English and Scottish lineage. It is possible that this variation emerged due to regional dialects or pronunciation differences. Additionally, the name "Ingles" is also found in Spanish-speaking countries, likely as a result of immigration or cultural assimilation. Lastly, there is a less commonly used variant, "Inglesby," which may have originated from combining "Ingels" with the suffix "-by," indicating a location or dwelling. Overall, with spellings such as Ingalls, Ingles, and Inglesby, the last name Ingels has manifested itself in various forms over time, reflecting both regional and linguistic influences.

Famous people with the last name Ingels

One prominent individual with the last name Ingels is Bjarke Ingels, a renowned Danish architect. He is known for his innovative architectural designs and sustainable approach to urban development. Ingels founded BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), an architectural firm that has gained international recognition for its extraordinary projects. Some of his notable works include the Mountain Dwellings in Copenhagen, Denmark, and the Amager Bakke waste-to-energy plant in Copenhagen. Ingels has been honored with numerous awards, including the Wall Street Journal Innovator of the Year and the Danish Crown Prince Culture Award. His designs blend functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, reflecting his vision of designing spaces that are both visually striking and environmentally friendly. Bjarke Ingels has significantly influenced the field of contemporary architecture and remains a prominent figure in the industry. Note: It is important to mention that the popularity and fame of individuals can vary based on different factors and individual perceptions.

Genealogical research on the last name Ingels

The Ingels surname is believed to have originated in Germany or the Netherlands. It is derived from the personal name Engel, which means "angel" in Dutch and German. The name Ingels was often used as a patronymic surname, indicating descent from a man named Engel. One branch of the Ingels family migrated to the United States in the late 19th century, settling primarily in regions such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. They were primarily farmers and laborers, adapting to their new surroundings and contributing to the growth of their communities. Over time, the Ingels family spread out across the country, with later generations branching into various professions and trades. Genealogical research on the Ingels family reveals a rich history, with several notable individuals emerging over the years. These include successful businessmen, educators, and professionals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Today, the Ingels surname continues to be passed down through generations, serving as a reminder of the family's heritage and the accomplishments of their ancestors.

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 : 11 April 2025

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