Last Name Reibel

The last name Reibel is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "rübele," which means "a turnip," and was likely used as an occupational surname for someone who either grew or sold turnips. Alternatively, it could also be a topographic surname for someone who lived near a field or area where turnips were grown. The surname Reibel is relatively rare and typically found in Germany and surrounding countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Reibel

The meaning and origin of the last name Reibel

The surname Reibel is of German origin and is derived from the medieval personal name "Rabil," which itself comes from the German word "rab," meaning "robust" or "strong." The name likely originated as a nickname for someone who exhibited these characteristics or as a given name for a child hoped to embody them. Over time, the name evolved into a hereditary surname that was passed down through generations. Variations of the surname Reibel can be found in different regions of Germany, with different spellings such as Riebel or Reible. Today, individuals with the surname Reibel can be found in various countries, particularly in Germany and its neighboring countries where Germanic influences are prevalent.

Geographical distribution of the last name Reibel

The last name Reibel is of German origin and is most commonly found in Germany, particularly in the regions of Rhineland-Palatinate, Baden-Württemberg, and Bavaria. It is also present in neighboring countries such as Switzerland, Austria, and France, where German-speaking populations historically resided. In the United States, the surname Reibel is less common but can be found predominantly in states with large German immigrant populations, such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Reibel reflects the historical movement of German-speaking populations and their descendants across Europe and North America. Today, individuals with the surname Reibel can be found in various countries around the world, often tracing their lineage back to their German roots.

Variants and spellings of the last name Reibel

The last name Reibel has several variations and spellings, including Riebel, Riebell, Rible, Rieball, and Ribbel. These variations may have originated due to different dialects, regional accents, or spelling changes over time. The surname Reibel is of German origin and is believed to have derived from the word "reibel," meaning groove or channel. It is a common surname in Germany, particularly in the regions of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. The Reibel family may have migrated and settled in other countries, leading to further variations in the spelling of their last name. Regardless of the spelling, individuals with the surname Reibel can trace their ancestry back to Germany and are likely to have a heritage rooted in the traditions and culture of the region.

Famous people with the last name Reibel

Some famous people with the last name Reibel include Guillaume Reibel, a French composer and music teacher known for his numerous choral works and contributions to modern choral pedagogy. Guillaume Reibel was influential in the French music scene during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and his compositions are still performed today. Another well-known individual with the last name Reibel is Eric Reibel, a German economist and professor who specializes in the fields of finance and banking. Eric Reibel is highly regarded in academic circles for his research on risk management and financial markets. Both Guillaume and Eric Reibel have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on the world of music and economics.

Genealogical research on the last name Reibel

The surname Reibel is of German origin and is believed to be derived from the name Riebel, a nickname for someone with a rye-colored hair or complexion. The name has been found in various regions of Germany, including Baden, Bavaria, and the Rhineland. Genealogical research indicates that the Reibel family has a long history, with records dating back to the 16th century. Members of the Reibel family have been documented as farmers, craftsmen, and merchants throughout the centuries. The name may have undergone variations in spelling over time, such as Riebel, Riebeling, or Reible. Today, individuals with the surname Reibel can be found in countries around the world, with descendants of the original German settlers now residing in the United States, Canada, and other parts of Europe.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "reibel"
• 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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