Last Name Thorel

The surname Thorel is of French origin. It comes from the Old Norse personal name "Þórir" which means "Thor's fame." In medieval France, many Scandinavian names were adopted and assimilated into the local language due to Viking invasions and settlement. Over time, these names evolved to form various modern French surnames, with Thorel being one of them.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Thorel

The meaning and origin of the last name Thorel

The surname Thorel is of French origin, derived from the Old Norse name "Þórir" which means "Thor's people". This personal name was brought to France by the Vikings during their invasions and settlements in the region between the 9th and 11th centuries. Over time, as the use of surnames became more widespread in Europe, the name "Þórir" evolved into various forms in different regions. In France, it eventually transformed into Thorel, which is still predominantly found in the northern regions of Normandy and Picardy. The name Thorel is relatively uncommon compared to other French surnames but carries a rich historical legacy from the Viking era to modern times.

Geographical distribution of the last name Thorel

The surname Thorel is predominantly found in France, with the highest concentrations in the regions of Normandy and Brittany. In Normandy, significant numbers of people bearing the name Thorel reside in departments such as Calvados, Manche, and Orne. Similarly, in Brittany, Mayenne, Ille-et-Vilaine, and Côtes-d'Armor are areas with a notable presence of this surname. There are also smaller communities of Thorel family members in the Loire Valley, particularly in the department of Loir-et-Cher. Additionally, some individuals with the last name Thorel can be found outside France, primarily among the French diaspora and their descendants.

Variants and spellings of the last name Thorel

The surname Thorel has several variants and spellings across different regions and time periods. Some common spelling variations include Thorelle, Thorrel, Thoroll, Thorral, Thorrell, and Torel. These variations may arise due to differences in pronunciation, transcribing errors, or regional dialects over time. Additionally, it is possible that some individuals have changed the spelling of their surname for personal reasons or assimilation purposes. Regardless of the specific spelling, all variations share a common root and are likely derived from a similar original name. It's always fascinating to explore the history and evolution of surnames, as they provide insights into migration patterns, cultural changes, and the rich tapestry of human history.

Famous people with the last name Thorel

The Thorel family has produced several notable figures across different fields. Jean Thorel (1897-1976), a French archaeologist, was renowned for his work on prehistoric art and discoveries such as the Lascaux Cave paintings in 1940. In the world of literature, Michel Thorel (b. 1932) is a French novelist known for his works like "Les Chiens de la nuit" ("Night Dogs"), which was adapted into a film in 1981. In sports, Pascal Thérel (b. 1964), a Swiss former tennis player, reached the quarterfinals at Wimbledon and US Open. Lastly, in the realm of visual arts, Jean-Louis Théobald Thorel (1753-1827) was a French portrait painter whose works graced the Palace of Versailles during the late Ancien Régime. These notable figures represent the diverse achievements and talent within the Thorel family lineage.

Genealogical research on the last name Thorel

The surname Thorel is primarily found in France, particularly in Normandy and Brittany regions. Its origins can be traced back to the medieval period, around the 13th century. One of the earliest records of the name was found in Normandy in 1275, where a Guillaume Thorel was mentioned in a church record. Over time, variations such as Thorelle, Torel, and Thoreaux emerged due to spelling inconsistencies and regional dialects. Notable persons bearing this surname include the French astronomer Paul-Henri Théroux (1867–1936), who was a pioneer in spectroscopy, and the French politician Michel Thorel (born 1951). The Thorel family lineage can be explored further through genealogical databases, church records, census reports, and historical documents.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Thorel"
• 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 : 12 June 2025

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