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Last Name Kimmel

What is the origin of the last name Kimmel?

The surname Kimmel is primarily of German origin. It is derived from the given name "Kim" which originally came from the Old High German name "Chuoni." The name eventually evolved into "Kimmo" and "Kimbel," and then further variations such as Kimmel emerged. The German name Kimmel could also be a variant of the name Kimmelmann, meaning "one who works with a tub or barrel" in German. Overall, the surname Kimmel is most commonly found among people of German descent.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Kimmel

The meaning and origin of the last name Kimmel

The surname Kimmel is of German origin, derived from the personal name Kimmo, which is a diminutive form of the name Joachim. Joachim is a Hebrew name meaning "established by Yahweh." The surname Kimmel, therefore, can be translated to "descendant of Kimmo" or "son of Kimmo." It is believed to have originated as a patronymic surname, identifying individuals who were the offspring of someone named Kimmo. The name Kimmo itself was relatively popular during the medieval period in German and Scandinavian-speaking regions. Over time, the surname Kimmel spread across various parts of Germany, including Bavaria, Saxony, and Hesse. German immigration to other countries, such as the United States, led to the dispersal and adaptation of the Kimmel surname in different cultures and regions. Today, Kimmel can be found as a surname in several countries with German-speaking or German-immigrant populations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kimmel

The last name Kimmel has a relatively diverse geographical distribution. It can be found mainly in the United States, particularly in the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois. These states have historically been home to a significant number of Kimmel families, possibly due to migration patterns in the past. Additionally, the name is fairly common in Germany, where it likely originated. Many Kimmel families in the U.S. can trace their ancestry back to German immigrants who settled in America. Outside of these areas, the surname is less prevalent but can still be found in various parts of the world. Notably, Kimmel is also found in Canada, specifically in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. The geographical distribution of the Kimmel surname suggests a connection to German roots while also reflecting the impact of migration and dispersal to different parts of North America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kimmel

The last name "Kimmel" can have several variations and spellings depending on regional accents, cultural backgrounds, and historical changes. Some common variations and spellings of the name include Kimel, Kimml, Kimmelmann, Kimbell, Kimmel, Kimmell, Kíméli, and Kímmel. These variations might arise due to linguistic differences across different languages and dialects. For example, Kimmelmann might be a German variation, while Kimel could be of Polish or Eastern European origin. The name might have also undergone alterations due to transliteration or anglicization when individuals migrated to English-speaking countries. Over time, different branches of the same family may have adopted slightly modified spellings as they settled in different regions or countries. Furthermore, individual preferences and personal choices may have contributed to further spelling variations. Therefore, it is common to encounter multiple alternatives and variations of the last name Kimmel across different cultures, languages, and geographical regions.

Famous people with the last name Kimmel

Jimmy Kimmel is an American television host and comedian, widely known for hosting his own late-night talk show, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" He gained prominence for his witty and satirical approach to current events and his popular segments such as "Mean Tweets." With a career spanning over two decades, Kimmel has become one of the most recognizable faces in the entertainment industry. His remarkable ability to engage and entertain the audience has earned him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards. Another notable figure with the last name Kimmel is Admiral Husband E. Kimmel, a United States Navy officer. He is best known for his role in the Pearl Harbor attack, as he was the Commander-in-Chief of the United States Pacific Fleet at the time. The events surrounding the attack led to his controversial demotion and subsequent retirement from the Navy. These individuals have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, displaying their talent, skill, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Genealogical research on the last name Kimmel

The last name Kimmel is of German origin, derived from the pre-7th century word "kummel," meaning "fennel seed." The Kimmel family has a rich history that dates back several centuries. Most notably, the surname was prominent in the Palatinate region of Germany in the 17th and 18th centuries. Many Kimmels emigrated from this area to the United States in search of better economic opportunities in the 19th century. The Kimmel family can trace their roots to various states across America, with significant populations found in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois. In recent generations, the family has expanded and migrated to different parts of the country, continuing their legacy in various professions and industries. The Kimmel surname is now fairly common, reflecting the growth and dispersal of the Kimmel family over the years. Genealogical research can help individuals connect with their Kimmel ancestors and uncover the stories and accomplishments that have shaped their family history.

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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