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Last Name Steels

What is the origin of the last name Steels?

The surname Steels is of English origin and is thought to be a variation of the surname Steele. The name is derived from the Old English word "stal," meaning "steel" or "hard," and was likely used as an occupational surname for someone who worked with or made steel objects. The name could also have been derived from a place name, such as Steel, Steeles, or Steele. Over time, the spelling of the surname may have evolved to Steels.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Steels

The meaning and origin of the last name Steels

Steels is a surname of English origin that is occupational in nature, derived from the Middle English word "stele" or "steleman" meaning a maker or seller of steel. It is likely that the original bearers of the surname were involved in the steel industry or worked as blacksmiths, producing steel products. The surname Steels is still relatively rare in comparison to other surnames of English origin. Over time, variations of the name such as Steel and Steele have emerged, each with their own unique history and nuances. Today, individuals with the surname Steels can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in countries with English-speaking populations like the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Geographical distribution of the last name Steels

The last name Steels has a relatively low distribution around the world, with the majority of individuals bearing this surname residing in the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, many individuals with the last name Steels can be found in the Midwest and Northeast regions, particularly in states like Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio. In the United Kingdom, the surname is more prevalent in regions such as England and Scotland. There are also smaller concentrations of individuals with the last name Steels in countries like Canada, Australia, and South Africa. Overall, while the surname Steels is not one of the most common last names globally, there are still pockets of individuals bearing this name spread across different parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Steels

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Famous people with the last name Steels

One famous person with the last name Steels is David Steels, a British politician who served as the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Roxburgh, Selkirk and Peebles from 1964 to 1979 and again from 1983 to 1997. He was also a member of the Scottish Parliament from 1999 to 2003. Another notable individual with the last name Steels is Sarah Steels, an Australian actress known for her roles in various television shows and films, including "Neighbours" and "The Saddle Club." Additionally, Kathryn Steels is a renowned artist known for her abstract paintings and mixed media works. The Steels family name has produced talented individuals in the realms of politics, entertainment, and art, making a lasting impact in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Steels

The surname Steels is of English origin and is occupational in nature, derived from the name for a worker in steel or metal. The earliest recorded instance of the name dates back to the 13th century in the county of Yorkshire, England. The Steels family is believed to have spread throughout England over the centuries, with some branches moving to other parts of the United Kingdom and eventually to other countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States. Genealogical research on the Steels surname reveals a diverse array of individuals with varying occupations, social statuses, and familial connections. The name has also seen various spelling variations over time, including Steele and Steeles. Today, individuals with the surname Steels can be found across the globe, continuing to carry on the legacy of their ancestors in various professions and endeavors.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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