Last Name Leibold

The last name "Leibold" is of German origin. It is a variant of the name "Luitbold," which is derived from the Germanic elements "liut" meaning "people" and "bald" meaning "bold" or "brave." Therefore, "Leibold" can be roughly translated to "brave people" or "brave ruler." This surname is mainly found in Germany and has variations such as Leibhold or Leibolt.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Leibold

The meaning and origin of the last name Leibold

The surname Leibold is of German origin and has several possible meanings. One theory suggests that it is derived from the Old High German name "Luitbold," which was composed of the elements "liut," meaning people, and "bald," meaning bold or brave. The name Leibold can also be derived from the Middle High German word "leupold," which combines "leut," meaning people, and "bald," meaning bold. The Leibold surname is predominantly found in Germany, specifically in the regions of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Hesse. It is believed to have been used as a characteristic nickname for individuals who exhibited bravery or boldness, or who possessed leadership qualities. Over time, the original meaning and spelling may have undergone alterations, variations, or adaptations. As with many surnames, the exact origin and meaning of Leibold can vary depending on different sources and historical contexts. Further research into specific family lineages and historical records may provide more precise insights into the individual origins and meanings associated with the Leibold surname.

Geographical distribution of the last name Leibold

The last name Leibold has a relatively concentrated geographical distribution focused primarily in Germany and the United States. In Germany, the name is more prevalent and can be found across various regions such as Baden-Württemberg, Bayern, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Hessen. Within these regions, cities like Stuttgart, Munich, and Frankfurt may have a higher concentration of individuals with the Leibold surname. Due to historical emigration patterns, the name has also made its way to the United States, particularly in states with strong German immigrant populations such as Wisconsin, Illinois, and Ohio. In these areas, cities like Milwaukee, Chicago, and Cincinnati may have a significant number of Leibolds. Overall, while the last name Leibold can still be considered relatively uncommon on a global scale, its distribution within Germany and the United States suggests a familial connection to these regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Leibold

The last name "Leibold" has several variations and spellings across different regions and languages. Some common variations include Leybold, Leibhold, Leyboldt, Leibholz, Leipelt, and Leipold. These variations can be attributed to historical factors, such as language differences or changes in spelling conventions over time. The name may also have different spellings based on the preferences of individual families or due to clerical errors during record-keeping. For example, the spelling "Leibold" is mainly found in Germany, while "Leybold" is more common in English-speaking countries. In some cases, these different spellings have led to separate branches of the same family. Nevertheless, despite the variations, these different forms of the last name ultimately share a common origin, and all represent individuals who are connected through their heritage as Leibolds, regardless of the specific spelling they use.

Famous people with the last name Leibold

While there are not many famous individuals with the last name Leibold, one notable figure is Gloria Leibold. Gloria is a renowned artist who has gained recognition for her visually captivating and thought-provoking paintings. Her artwork often explores various themes of identity, social issues, and human emotions. Through her unique use of colors, textures, and brushstrokes, Leibold's paintings elicit strong emotional responses and invite the viewers to question the complexities of the human experience. Her work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries around the world and has garnered critical acclaim from art critics and collectors alike. Leibold's talent and dedication to her craft have solidified her position as one of the most respected contemporary artists of our time. Her art continues to inspire and provoke conversations, making Gloria Leibold a name synonymous with artistic excellence.

Genealogical research on the last name Leibold

The surname Leibold is of German origin and has been found to have various spellings throughout history, including Leipold, Leybold, Leipoldt, and Leiphold. Genealogical research reveals that the name can be traced back to the medieval period, specifically to the region of Bavaria in southern Germany. It is believed to have originated as a personal name derived from the Old High German elements "leid" meaning "suffering" or "sorrow" and "bold" meaning "brave" or "bold." Over time, this personal name transformed into a hereditary surname adopted by individuals and passed down through generations. Individuals bearing the surname Leibold can be found in various regions of Germany, including Baden-Württemberg, Saxony, and Hesse. Additionally, some branches of the Leibold family migrated to other countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Brazil, during periods of emigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, descendants of the Leibold family are spread across the globe, united by their shared ancestral roots.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Leibold"
• 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 : 11 April 2025

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