Last Name Reiling

Learn more about the origin of the last name Reiling

The meaning and origin of the last name Reiling

The surname Reiling is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "reihlen," which means "to row" or "arrange in rows." It may have been originally an occupational name for someone who worked as a rower, such as on a riverboat or ship. Alternatively, it could have been a topographic name for someone who lived by a straight, narrow strip of land. The surname Reiling first appeared in the Rhineland region of Germany during the Middle Ages and was later brought to other parts of Europe by German settlers. Today, the name is most commonly found in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the United States, where it is often spelled differently due to variations in transliteration and local dialects.

Geographical distribution of the last name Reiling

The surname Reiling is predominantly found in Germany and neighboring countries with significant German-speaking populations, such as Austria and Switzerland. Its origins can be traced back to the Rhineland region, specifically the Palatinate area, where it was most likely a topographic name for someone who lived at or near a clearing on a slope (Reil in German). Over time, variations like Rehling, Realig, and Realinger have also emerged. In recent times, people with the surname Reiling can be found worldwide as a result of migration and diaspora, particularly to the United States, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Reiling

The surname Reiling has multiple variations and spellings, reflecting its origins and evolution over time. Some common spelling variants include: Riehling, Rheiling, and Reihling. These variations arise due to differences in regional pronunciation, transcription errors, and family adaptations. Other less common but valid forms may be found, such as Ryeling or Rhieling, which result from phonetic changes and dialectal influences. It is essential to note that any of these spellings can be authentic and reflect legitimate descendants of the original Reiling lineage. Therefore, it is crucial to consider all possible variants when researching family history or genealogy.

Famous people with the last name Reiling

The Reiling surname has produced several notable figures across various fields. In the realm of academia, Herbert G. Reiling, an American geologist and paleontologist, made significant contributions to the study of fossil fishes during the late Paleozoic era. In entertainment, John C. Reilly, a renowned American actor, is known for his roles in movies like "Chicago," "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story," and "Step Brothers." In sports, Lisa Reiling Weimar, an athlete from Germany, won the gold medal in the 4 x 100-meter freestyle relay at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Lastly, Martin Reiling, a German entrepreneur and investor, co-founded several successful businesses including the online retailer MyToys.com. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements and impact of people bearing the Reiling surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Reiling

The surname Reiling is of German origin, deriving from the Old High German word "Reihhilf," which translates to 'Royal protection.' This name was originally a topographic name for someone who lived on a royal estate or a byname for someone who performed some service there.

The earliest known recorded spelling of the name can be traced back to the early Middle Ages in regions such as Bavaria and Swabia, with the first documented instance being Conrad von Reiling in the 13th century. As German populations migrated during the late medieval period, variations of the name, including Realinger, Reyling, Rieling, and Riell, emerged across Europe, particularly in Switzerland and France.

In later centuries, notable individuals bearing the surname Reiling include the Swiss politician and statesman Niklaus Rudolf von Reiling (1709-1763), a key figure during the establishment of the Swiss Federal State, and Dr. Georg Heinrich Reilinger (1820-1878), a German geologist who made significant contributions to the field of paleontology. The name remains relatively uncommon globally but has a strong presence in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the United States.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Reiling"
• 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 June 2025