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Last Name Knoll

What is the origin of the last name Knoll?

The surname "Knoll" has German origins. It is derived from the Middle High German word "knolle," which means "knob" or "round object." In this context, it likely referred to someone who lived near a prominent round hill or small mound. The name could also have been given to someone who had a round, knob-like feature on their body, or who had a job or occupation associated with the word "knolle," such as a farmer or a potter. Over time, variations of the name "Knoll" may have emerged as families migrated or through regional dialects.

origin of the last name Knoll

Learn more about the origin of the last name Knoll

The meaning and origin of the last name Knoll

The surname Knoll is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "knolle," which means "hill" or "knoll." It is a topographic surname that originally referred to someone who lived near or on a small hill. It is a common habitational name denoting someone who resided near a specific geographic feature. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname given to someone who was either small in stature or had a noticeable hump on their back, resembling a knoll or hill. The surname Knoll is widely found in Germany, particularly in the regions of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Hesse. Over time, individuals bearing the name Knoll may have migrated to other countries, leading to its presence in various parts of the world, especially North America. Today, the surname Knoll often carries symbolic associations to natural landscapes or physical characteristics.

Geographical distribution of the last name Knoll

The last name Knoll is primarily distributed in Germany. It originates from the German word "Knolle," which means "knob" or "bulb." The name is commonly found in various regions across the country, including Bavaria, Hesse, Saxony, and Baden-Württemberg. In these areas, the population of individuals with the Knoll surname is more concentrated. However, the name Knoll can also be found in other parts of the world due to migration and globalization. In the United States, the surname is relatively common, particularly in states with large German-American populations, such as Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Ohio. Additionally, there are scattered instances of individuals with the last name Knoll in other European countries, such as Austria and Switzerland. Overall, while the majority of individuals with the last name Knoll can be found in Germany, their presence can also be found in various other regions, especially in areas influenced by German immigration and cultural heritage.

Variants and spellings of the last name Knoll

The last name Knoll is a relatively uncommon surname with a few variations and possible spellings. While the most common spelling is Knoll, some variations can be found due to different regional pronunciations and language adaptations. These variations include Knoel, Knolle, and Noll. In some cases, the surname may have undergone further modifications when individuals immigrated to different countries and encountered varying transcription systems. For instance, the German pronunciation of Knoll might be spelled as Knöll or Knöhl. Similarly, the name could be anglicized to Nole or Noel in English-speaking countries. It is also worth noting that spelling variations can occasionally occur due to clerical errors or personal preferences. Despite these slight differences, all of these variations are ultimately derived from the original German word "knolle," meaning "knob" or "tuber," which may have originally referred to someone's physical appearance or occupation.

Famous people with the last name Knoll

The last name Knoll is not commonly associated with famous individuals. However, one notable person with this surname is Hans Knoll, a German-American businessman and entrepreneur. Alongside his wife Florence Knoll, they founded the renowned furniture company, Knoll Inc., in 1938. Hans Knoll was known for his exceptional eye for design and his passion for modern furniture. Under his leadership, Knoll Inc. became one of the leading manufacturers of iconic furniture pieces, collaborating with renowned architects and designers of the time. Although Hans passed away in 1955, his legacy lives on through the enduring success of Knoll Inc., which continues to be influential in the world of modern design. While the last name Knoll may not boast a long list of famous figures, its association with successful and impactful design cannot be overlooked.

Genealogical research on the last name Knoll

The surname Knoll is of German origin and is likely derived from the Middle High German word "knolle," which means "knob" or "hill." It comes from a topographic or locational name, referring to someone who either lived near a small hill or had the habitational name from a place named Knoll. The earliest known records of the Knoll surname date back to the 14th century, specifically in the region of Thuringia in Germany. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Knoll have migrated to various parts of Europe and even further afield, notably to the United States. In America, the surname can be traced back to the 18th century, with Knolls settling in different states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Today, the Knoll surname is relatively common in these regions as well as in Germany, where it originated. Genealogical research on the Knoll family could provide further insight into specific lineages, migrations, and notable individuals with the surname.

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