Surname Janschel - Meaning and Origin
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Janschel: What does the surname Janschel mean?
The last name Janschel is a German surname primarily found in Bavaria and Brandenburg in Germany. It is thought to be a habitational name derived from a place name with the suffix ‘-schel’ or ‘-sche’, an old variant of ‘-thal’ or ‘dale’. The name comes from the Middle High German root ‘jann’, meaning ‘God has given’. This name suggests that the original bearer of the name Janschel was given a settlement as a reward from God. It is likely that the name derived from a village or town with the name Janschel or Janndal.
Throughout history, bearers of the name Janschel have served as merchants and farmers, contributing to the local economy in the area as well as some explorations farther afield. Some Janschels have developed a strong connection to their ancestral hometown, while others have ventured to far-reaching countries including the US, Canada, Australia and other long-distance destinations. These people bring with them their unique understanding of the Janschel culture, and through globalization they spread their culture and the name Janschel to places beyond their ancestral homeland.
The surname Janschel represents a long history of a family that has called many places home, yet retained the same surname over generations. It is a testament to tradition, as the name embodies the belief and hope that God will provide, a value that has been re-iterated time and again in the family’s move from one home to the next.
Order DNA origin analysisJanschel: Where does the name Janschel come from?
The last name Janschel is most commonly found in Germany today, but also has representation in other countries throughout Central and Eastern Europe. It is a German surname that is derived from the given name Johannes or Johann. The variations in spelling of this name include Janschel, Janschehl, Janschill, Jansheil, Janshul, and Janskiel.
The earliest documentation of the surname dates back to the 16th century in the regions of Brandenburg, Bavaria, and Pomerania. During that time, it was most popular in Lower Silesia and in the region of Pautsch. By the 19th century, the surname had spread into Switzerland, Austria, Luxembourg, and other parts of Germany.
Today, Janschel is among the top 1,000 most common surnames in Germany. It is also on the list of the most common surnames in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and parts of the Netherlands. It is also fairly common in Poland, Hungary, and Slovenia.
Immigrants bearing the Janschel surname can also be found in countries like the United States, Australia, and Canada. This is largely the result of mass migration in the late 19th century and throughout the 20th century. The dispersal of the Janschel family was mainly due to political and economic factors, such as the Third Reich and the subsequent displacement of German-speaking communities, as well as Cold War strategies and other social, religious, and economic motivations.
Variations of the surname Janschel
The surname Janschel is a Germanic surname derived from the given name ‘Johann’, which ultimately means ‘God is gracious’. It is a fairly common name and has several variants, spellings, and surnames of similar origin.
The most common variants of the surname Janschel include Janeckel, Janisch, Janckl, Janckel, Janeken, Jansen, Jansch, Janske, and Janschol. Additionally, spellings can differ depending on the region; for instance, ‘Janscheil’ and ‘Jancshel’ are also recognized. Surnames with similar beginnings to Janschel include Johnstahl, Juhnke, Junchill, Jokisch, and Juancho.
The variations that exist for the surname Janschel is why it is important to research the meaning and history behind your own surname. This can help to ensure accuracy in any family search that you may choose to undertake. Additionally, by identifying variations of the surname, you may even find a connecting ancestor that was previously unrecognized.
Famous people with the name Janschel
- Doug Janschel, professional singer/songwriter from New Zealand.
- John Janschel, former football player turned actor.
- Matthew Janschel, Canadian musician.
- Lisa Janschel, Olympic synchronized swimmer.
- Beth Janschel, competitive ice skater.
- Lise Janschel, award-winning author.
- Alan Janschel, serving United States Senator.
- Thomas Janschel, Academy Award-winning director.
- Jimmy Janschel, major league baseball pitcher.
- Mary Janschel, Grammy Award-winning country singer.