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Last Name Wohl

What is the origin of the last name Wohl?

The last name Wohl is of German origin. It derives from the Middle High German word "wol" or "wola," meaning "well" or "pond." The name likely originated as a topographic or locational surname for someone who lived near a well or a pond.

origin of the last name Wohl

Learn more about the origin of the last name Wohl

The meaning and origin of the last name Wohl

The surname Wohl is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "wol," meaning "well" or "good." It is believed to have originally been used as a name to denote someone who had a good character or reputation. Alternatively, it may have been a topographic name for someone who lived near a well or spring. The surname Wohl likely originated in Germany and spread to various other countries as people migrated and settled in different regions. Today, individuals with the surname Wohl can be found across the world, with variations in spelling and pronunciation depending on the country of residence and linguistic influences.

Geographical distribution of the last name Wohl

The last name Wohl is most commonly found in Germany and the United States, with a significant concentration in areas with large German immigrant populations. In Germany, the surname is most prevalent in the western regions, such as North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony. In the United States, the name is most frequently found in states with high German-American populations, including New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. Additionally, there are smaller clusters of individuals with the last name Wohl in other countries with historical ties to Germany, such as Austria and Switzerland. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Wohl suggests a strong connection to German ancestry and immigration patterns in both Europe and North America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Wohl

The last name Wohl has various possible spellings and variations, including Woll, Wohlleben, Wohlberg, and Wohlfarth. Additionally, the name may also be spelled as Vohl, Wühl, or Vohlman in certain regions. Some other less common variations could include Wohlman, Wohls, and Wohlenberg. The name Wohl is of German origin, and its variations and spellings have evolved over time due to changes in language, dialects, and regional influences. The variations in spelling may also have been a result of clerical errors or misinterpretations during record keeping. Despite these variations, the name Wohl remains a distinct and recognizable surname with a rich history and cultural significance.

Famous people with the last name Wohl

One famous person with the last name Wohl is Jacob Wohl, an American conservative political commentator and conspiracy theorist. Known for his controversial and often debunked claims, Wohl has garnered a significant following on social media but has also faced criticism for spreading misinformation. Another notable figure with the last name Wohl is Naomi Wohl, an Australian artist and writer known for her thought-provoking and socially conscious work. Naomi Wohl has received acclaim for her paintings, sculptures, and installations that explore themes of identity, culture, and memory. Both Jacob and Naomi Wohl have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on the cultural and political landscape.

Genealogical research on the last name Wohl

The surname Wohl can be traced back to its origins in Germany, where it is believed to have been derived from the Middle High German word "wol," meaning "well" or "source." It is thought that the name may have been originally used to denote someone who lived near a spring or well. The earliest recorded instances of the Wohl surname can be found in medieval records from various regions of Germany, including Bavaria and Rhineland. Over time, the Wohl family name spread to other countries, particularly the United States, where immigrants from Germany brought the name with them. Today, individuals with the surname Wohl can be found throughout the world, with variations in spelling such as Wohl, Woehl, and Woll. Researching the genealogy of the Wohl surname can provide valuable insights into the history and migration patterns of this family name.

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