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Last Name Zahl

What is the origin of the last name Zahl?

The surname "Zahl" is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "zal" which means number or total. This surname may have originally been given to a person who worked as an accountant or someone who handled numbers and calculations.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zahl

The meaning and origin of the last name Zahl

The surname Zahl is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "zal" which means payment or debt. The surname likely originated as a nickname for someone who was known for either quickly settling their debts or had a reputation for owing money. It is also possible that the surname could have been occupational in nature, referring to someone who worked as a tax collector or accountant. The surname Zahl is relatively uncommon and is mainly found in Germany and other German-speaking regions. Like many surnames, Zahl may have evolved over time through variations in spelling and pronunciation as families migrated and settled in different areas. Today, individuals with the surname Zahl can be found around the world, often with variations in spelling due to anglicization or other influences.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zahl

The last name Zahl is of German origin and is most commonly found in Germany, particularly in the regions of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and North Rhine-Westphalia. It is also present in other German-speaking countries such as Austria and Switzerland. Outside of Europe, the surname Zahl can be found in countries with significant German immigrant populations, such as the United States, Canada, and Brazil. Overall, Zahl is a less common surname compared to others of German origin, but its distribution is mainly concentrated in German-speaking regions and areas with historical ties to Germany.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zahl

The last name "Zahl" can be spelled and varied in different ways, including Zal, Zale, Zhal, Zayl, Zohl, as well as Zaul. These variations may depend on individual preferences, regional accents, or historical translations. The name "Zahl" can also have different spellings due to transliterations from other languages or changes over time. Regardless of the specific spelling, the pronunciation remains consistent for this last name.

Famous people with the last name Zahl

Some of the most famous people with the last name Zahl include American actress and singer Jennifer Zahl, known for her roles in various television series and films. Another notable individual is German mathematician Eberhard Zahl, recognized for his contributions to the field of number theory. Additionally, American author and poet Mary Zahl gained popularity for her thought-provoking literary works. These individuals have achieved success and recognition in their respective fields, making the name Zahl well-known in various industries around the world.

Genealogical research on the last name Zahl

The surname Zahl has German origins and is derived from the Middle High German word "zal," meaning 'number' or 'reckoning.' It is believed to have originated as an occupational surname for someone who worked as an accountant or tax collector. The earliest known record of the surname Zahl dates back to the 13th century in Germany. Over the centuries, the Zahl family name has spread to other German-speaking regions such as Austria and Switzerland. Variations of the surname include Zal, Zahlen, and Zaller. Genealogical research on the Zahl family may reveal connections to noble families or historical figures in German history, as well as information on migration patterns and occupations of Zahl ancestors throughout the centuries.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 20 June 2025

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