Surname Himmel - Meaning and Origin
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Himmel: What does the surname Himmel mean?
The last name Himmel is of German origin, derived from the old German word "himmil" which means "heaven". This word was most likely used as a topographical term for someone who lived in or near a patch of land that was thought to be close to the heavens.
Historically, the Himmel family was a noble and recognized family that could trace their roots back to the Middle Ages. During this time, the Himmel name was used for the lords of certain villages in Germany. It was also very common for members of the family to have served in the military ranks, although some rose to higher ranks due to their loyalty to their cause.
In more modern times, the Himmel name remains linked to a variety of occupations and interests. People with the last name Himmel typically have a deep appreciation for the arts, literature, science, and philosophy. They are often proud of their heritage and will often work to preserve the traditions of their family's past.
No matter what the current occupation of someone with this last name, the Himmel families strive to have kind and thoughtful relationships with each other and with the people around them. They are focused on maintaining a sense of family and a strong link to their past.
Order DNA origin analysisHimmel: Where does the name Himmel come from?
The surname Himmel is quite common across Europe in countries such as Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Poland. It is also found among other German-speaking communities in other countries around the world, as well as among Jews who have adopted the language of their adoptive countries.
In the United States, the surname is found among several different immigrant populations, most notably those from Germany, Poland, and Russia. In fact, according to the 2020 US Census, over 11,000 individuals report Himmel as their surname. In addition to immigrants, the name can also be found among German Census registries due to numerous families immigrating to the states in the 1700s and 1800s.
In Germany, the surname is commonly found in the Berlin region, though it is not limited to this area. Additionally, it is documented that the Himmel family has its roots in the eastern province of Brandenburg, and records show that some family lines continued to live in this province into the early 1800s.
Generally speaking, the surname is derived from the German words "Himmel" and "Himmelfahrt," which translate to "heaven" and "ascension" respectively. As such, this surname is a likely reference to the belief in heavenly ascension and indeed is prevalent among those of a religious background.
Variations of the surname Himmel
The surname Himmel is derived from the German name for 'heaven' or 'sky'. This surname is commonly found in German, Dutch, and Jewish cultures. There are several variants, spelling, and surnames from the same origin.
In some cases, the surname is spelled as ‘Himmelhoch’ to indicate that the families had noble origins or ancestors. The alternative spellings of ‘Hemmel’ or ‘Hemmell’ are also found.
Variant spellings of Himmel can also include Himel, Himmler, Heimel, Heimiller, Heemil, and Hemel. All of these variants have a common root.
In Jewish traditions, surnames from the same root could include Himmelstein, Himmelman, or Himelfarb. These names contribute to the Jewish origin of the surname.
In some instances, names from the same root may have taken on new meanings over time. An example of this is the surname ‘Hoemel’, which can be considered a variant spelling of ‘Himmel’. ‘Hoemel’ is a Dutch version of the surname and it is thought to refer to Someone who lived near a hill.
Overall, the Himmel surname has a number of variants, spellings, and surnames from the same origin. Each of these variations can offer insights into the roots of the surname and its geographical history.
Famous people with the name Himmel
- Aaron Himmel: American basketball player
- Abigail (Abby) Himmel: Muppet Character from Sesame Street
- Arthur Himmel: American screenwriter and producer
- Bruce Himmel: American painter and sculptor
- Cliff Himmel: American writer and artist
- Daniel Himmel: American film producer
- Ella Himmel: Hungarian figure skater
- Fred Himmel: American actor and producer
- Herb Himmel: American voice actor, speaker and radio host
- John Himmel: American landscape painter and photographer
- Judith Himmel: German politician
- Kenneth Himmel: American real estate developer and entrepreneur
- M. Himmel: American silent film actress
- Mark Himmel: American film and television writer
- Marlene Himmel: German-born artist
- Otto Himmel: Austrian-Jewish pianist
- Paul Himmel: German-born photographer
- Robert Himmel: American poet, playwright, and journalist
- Stephen Himmel: American judge, the first African-American judge in Tampa, Florida
- Walter Himmel: American film actor