Last Name Odell

Learn more about the origin of the last name Odell

The meaning and origin of the last name Odell

The surname Odell is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name "Odel," which itself originated from the Old English word "adalla," meaning "prosperity" or "fortune." Alternatively, it could also be derived from the Old English words "od," meaning "wealth" or "possession," and "hild," meaning "battle." The name Odell was originally a baptismal name, which later became a surname to identify the descendants of Odell. The surname Odell is primarily found in England, particularly in the counties of Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire. Over time, bearers of the name Odell have migrated to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Today, the surname Odell can be found worldwide, with individuals proudly carrying on this ancestral name.

Geographical distribution of the last name Odell

The last name Odell has a diverse geographical distribution, though it is most commonly found in English-speaking countries. In the United States, the name is particularly prevalent, with pockets of concentration in states such as Texas, California, and Illinois. This is likely due to migration patterns and historical settlement. In the United Kingdom, the name is quite common as well, particularly in England and Scotland. It is believed to have originated from the Old English personal name "Oda," meaning "wealth, riches," combined with "wiell," meaning "stream or spring." Consequently, areas with Anglo-Saxon influence may have a higher concentration of the Odell surname. Outside of these regions, the name can also be found scattered throughout Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where English ancestry and migration have left their mark. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Odell reflects its origins in English-speaking nations and their historical ties.

Variants and spellings of the last name Odell

The last name Odell has various variations and spellings, reflecting the diverse ways it has been recorded throughout history. These variations include O'Dell, O'Delle, Odelle, Odel, Odeli, O'Dowl, and Odwell, among others. The prefix "O'" is common in Irish surnames, indicating a descendant of someone named Odell. This suggests a possible Irish origin for the name. The spelling "Odell" itself is most frequently seen and is believed to originate from the Old English words "wad" and "welle," meaning "a woad or weld plant by a spring." Over time, its pronunciation may have changed, leading to the various phonetic alterations in its spelling. As with many surnames, migration, immigration, and changing dialects have contributed to the diverse range of spellings associated with the name Odell. Nonetheless, regardless of the specific spelling, the name Odell continues to carry its own individual history and genealogy.

Famous people with the last name Odell

One famous individual with the last name Odell is Annie Oakley, a renowned American sharpshooter and exhibition shooter. Born Phoebe Ann Mosey in 1860, she took on the stage name Annie Oakley and became known for her incredible marksmanship skills. Traveling with Buffalo Bill's Wild West show, Oakley gained nationwide fame and even performed for Queen Victoria during a European tour. She showcased her remarkable accuracy and precision in shooting contests, earning a reputation as one of America's first female superstars. Another well-known figure with the last name Odell is James Scott Odell. As a Grammy award-winning music producer and songwriter, Odell has worked with many famous artists. He co-produced the iconic record "Unfinished Sympathy" by Massive Attack and collaborated with notable acts such as The Rolling Stones, Sting, and Madonna. His contributions to the music industry have established him as an influential figure in the world of popular music. These two individuals, Annie Oakley and James Scott Odell, have left a lasting impact in their respective fields and continue to inspire others with their exceptional talents.

Genealogical research on the last name Odell

The research on the last name Odell traces back centuries to England. The name is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English pre 7th century personal name "Woddel" or "Woddell", translating to "warrior". Early records suggest the name was mainly found in Hertfordshire, Essex, Bedfordshire, and Buckinghamshire regions. Over time, the Odell family spread throughout the British Isles, with notable concentrations in Norfolk and Lincolnshire. Migration to the New World led to the establishment of numerous Odell lineages in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. The Odell surname gained prominence in colonial America, with members of the family settling in New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Notable individuals with the last name Odell include Jonathan Odell, a Loyalist poet during the American Revolution, and Thomas Fordham Odell, a prominent Canadian lawyer and politician. Today, the Odell name continues to be present in various parts of the world, with individuals proudly preserving their ancestral heritage and contributing to their respective communities.