The surname Weible is of German origin and is a variant of the name Weibel, which means "little woman" or "wife" in German. It is derived from a diminutive form of the given name Weibe or Wibke, both of which are old German names for women. The surname Weible may have been used as a nickname for a womanly or wife-like person, or it could have been a occupational name for a female servant or attendant. It is also possible that the name evolved from a habitational name for someone who lived near a place called Weibels, which exists in Switzerland and Germany.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Weible
The meaning and origin of the last name Weible
The surname Weible is of English origin, derived from the Old English and Middle English personal name "Wibald" or "Wigbold," composed of the elements "wi(h)" meaning "Battle" or "War" and "bold" meaning "brave." Over time, this personal name evolved into the surname Weible as a result of Norman influence. The spelling variations of this name include Webbel, Wibel, Weibel, and others, reflecting the phonetic changes that occurred over the centuries due to regional accents and scribal errors in historical records. It is also possible that some instances of the name might have been influenced by the German surname "Weibel," which comes from the Middle High German "weibe" meaning "woman." However, the English form Weible specifically denotes male lineage.
Geographical distribution of the last name Weible
The surname Weible is predominantly found in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. According to data from various sources, it is most concentrated in regions such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, Illinois, and Texas within the U.S., and Ontario and Quebec in Canada. There are also minor occurrences in other parts of the world, including Germany, Switzerland, and Australia, suggesting potential origins or migrations from those regions. However, the exact geographical distribution can vary due to factors like genealogical research accuracy, immigration patterns, and cultural shifts over time.
Variants and spellings of the last name Weible
The surname Weible has various spelling variants due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common spelling variations include Weibel, Weibell, Weibold, Weiboll, Weibolt, Weibolte, Weybale, Weibull, and Weibley. These variations can be found throughout the United States, Germany, Switzerland, and other countries. The name originates from Germanic roots, where "weih" means "sacred" or "holy," and "-bold" or "-bolt" refers to a small hill or mound. Over time, different families may have spelled their names slightly differently due to regional dialects, scribes' interpretations, or personal preference.
Famous people with the last name Weible
Notable individuals with the surname Weible include:
1. John M. Weible, an American businessman and former CEO of the chemical company Ashland Inc. He served as CEO from 2006 to 2013 and previously held various positions within the company since joining in 1984.
2. Paula Weible, a notable figure in the field of nursing education. She is a professor at Saint Louis University's School for Professional Studies and has made significant contributions to nurse education through her research and teaching.
3. Scott Weible, an American politician who served as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly from 2009 to 2017. He represented the 35th District which covers parts of Manitowoc County.
4. Wally Weible, a retired American professional baseball pitcher who played for the Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs between 1966 and 1971. His most successful season was in 1968 when he posted a 10-5 record with a 3.22 ERA.
These individuals have made notable contributions in their respective fields, demonstrating the versatility and accomplishments of those bearing the Weible surname.
Genealogical research on the last name Weible
The surname Weible is believed to have originated from Germany and Switzerland, with variations such as Weibel, Weibold, Weibolt, and Weiboldt also existing. The name is derived from the Old High German 'weiba,' meaning woman or wife. In Germany, it was a common occupational name for a man who acted as a steward or manager for a woman of higher social status.
In the United States, records show that several Weible families arrived in the mid-1800s from Switzerland and Germany. Notable individuals with this surname include John A. Weible, a U.S. Representative from Ohio, and L. W. Weibel, a pioneer settler of Nebraska. Genealogical research suggests that the Weible family tree has multiple branches, with some lines concentrated in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and the Midwest region. Research continues to uncover more information about this interesting surname's history and lineage.
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