Surname Knechtel - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'K'
Knechtel: What does the surname Knechtel mean?
The last name Knechtel is of German origin and is found mainly among the German population. It derives from the German word"Knecht" meaning "servant". The name was most likely given to individuals who fulfilled some type of servant role within a family or community, similar to the English name "Smith". The suffix "-el" added to the end indicates the diminutive form of the name, indicating someone who was small in stature or performed some small service to the family or community.
Over time, the meaning of the name has evolved into its own entity; Knechtel can now represent an individual who is loyal, hardworking, and dependable. They are dedicated to achieving a task or reaching a goal. They are also tireless workers who are not afraid to take on any job no matter how big or small. Due to their strong values and determination, they are often looked up to by their family, friends, and co-workers.
No matter the origin, the last name Knechtel is now synonymous with reliability, loyalty, and diligence. It is an admirable name that can be passed down through generations, each person displaying a bit of the same values and dedication that have been present for centuries.
Order DNA origin analysisKnechtel: Where does the name Knechtel come from?
The last name Knechtel is a German surname typically found in southern Germany, especially the Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg areas. The name is believed to have started as a nickname used by people who worked as a bailiff or an administrator of manors or estates. Today, the surname is still common in Germany and is also found in Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and other parts of Europe.
Outside of Europe, the surname can also be found in North and South America, Australia, and South Africa, as many Europeans have emigrated since the 16th century. In North and South America, the last name Knechtel is most often found in the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Wisconsin, as many German immigrants settled in these states in the 19th century.
In Canada, the surname is slightly less common but can still be found in Ontario, British Colombia, and Alberta, as many German-speaking immigrants moved to Canadian cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. Outside of North and South America, the last name Knechtel can also be found in the Caribbean, especially in Puerto Rico and Jamaica.
However, researchers have noted that, due to the wide diffusion of the surname, the origin of the Knechtel family has been difficult to trace. As such, despite its relatively high frequency, the exact origin and diffusion of the surname remain largely unknown.
Variations of the surname Knechtel
Knechtel is a German surname that is derived from the word “Knecht”, which means “servant” or “knave”. The variants of this surname include Knicktel, Kneecktel, Knechel and Knöchel. This surname is also spelled as Knightel and Knightell. In addition, the Low German variant of Knechtel is Knechtl and the Dutch variant is Knetel.
Knechtel is also found in some countries with a Latinized form of the name, such as Knechtelius, Knechtelmi and Knechtelman. It can also be found in some Polish and Jewish communities as Knetchelnik and Knechalnik. Other related and similar surnames include Knectle, Kniepel, Knippel, Knoppel, Knepple, Knopfel and Knapfel.
Overall, the surname Knechtel has a rich history and many different variants, spellings and surnames that are related to it. Despite its various spellings and forms, all of these variations can be traced back to the same origin. The origin of the surname Knechtel is German and its meaning is derived from the word “Knecht”, which means “servant” or “knave”.
Famous people with the name Knechtel
- Larry Knechtel: American keyboardist, session musician, composer and arranger who was a prominent member of the Grammy-winning music group "The Wrecking Crew".
- Raymond J. Knechtel Jr.: songwriter, composer and producer who has written songs for artists such as Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and Barbra Streisand.
- Struggle Jennings: Rapper and descendant of country music legend Waylon Jennings who uses ‘Knechtel’ as his stage name.
- Kristine Knechtel: actress who is best known for her roles in ‘The vikings’, ‘Deconstructing Sarah’ and ‘Allied’.
- Leo Knechtel: Austrian actor who was most active in the 1960s and 1970s. He was best known for ‘Operation Cross of Fire’, ‘The Beast of Budapest’ and ‘The Taking over of the Castle of Hochosterwitz’. 6.Nicholas Knechtel: trumpeter for the Canadian Brass ensemble.
- Erika Knechtel: Canadian actress, director, producer, and writer.
- Gregor Knechtel: German physicist, inventor and businessman who was involved in the precision engineering industry.
- Matias Knechtel: Argentine dramatic actor, theatre director and playwright.
- Simon Knechtel: German musician who plays the Bass clarinet for the Berlin Radio Choir.