Surname Kniesley - Meaning and Origin

Kniesley: What does the surname Kniesley mean?

The surname Kniesley is of German origin, although its exact meaning is somewhat unclear due to changes and variations in spelling over centuries. The name is likely a topographic or occupational name derived from Middle High German. One plausible explanation is that it could have been derived from "knie" meaning "knee" and "sliht" meaning "smooth or straight," possibly referencing to a distinctive physical characteristic of the original bearer. It could also possibly be derived from "kneisel," which refers to a cobbler or shoemaker. It should be noted that the exact meaning might be different based on the regional dialects and usage in the past. Similar to many other surnames, Kniesley could have been used to identify individuals based on their trade, location, or a notable characteristic. As surnames evolved, it was often anglicized, leading to various spellings and interpretations. Therefore, the original and specific meaning of the surname Kniesley is not fully certain.

Kniesley: Where does the name Kniesley come from?

The last name Kniesley is of German origin and is most commonly found in the United States. Firstly, records indicate that the Kniesley family were among the many thousands of German immigrants who arrived in Pennsylvania between 1727 and 1775. Many of the family would have eventually spread throughout the British colonies at the time.

More recent data shows that the Kniesley name is much more concentrated in the United States, with the greatest numbers now found in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin and North Carolina. As such, these states could be considered as the ‘hotspots’ of the Kniesley name.

In recent years, many Kniesleys have moved out of their traditional homes in the Midwest and onto the East and West Coast of the United States with the states of California, Florida and Oregon being newer home to many of the Kniesley descendants.

It is also worth mentioning that there are some Kniesleys living in both Canada and Mexico further reflecting the diversity of the name’s spread.

Overall, the Kniesley name is still relatively common in the United States and can be found in states across the entire continent.

Variations of the surname Kniesley

The surname Kniesley is of Germanic origin and is derived from the personal name Knoz. Variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin include Knoz, Knozsly, Knozley, Knizley, Knisley, Knizly, Kneisley, Knesley, Knezley, Knisel, Kneisel, Kniesel, Knissell, Kneisell, Knoesel, Knisel, Kneidel and Kneisele.

Kniesley is a variation on the Germanic surname Knoz and is derived from the personal name Knoz. This name is derived from the Old Germanic personal name Chunzo or Knut, meaning ‘Knot’ or ‘Fastener’, which was popular in the Middle Ages. It also evolved in the forms Kunz, Konrad, and Konz, which are all variations on the same root word.

The surname Kniesley is believed to have first originated in the northern German region of Pomerania during the early Medieval period, and it is from here that the surname spread throughout Europe. Variants of the surname can also be found in England, Poland, Saxony, Holland, and Sweden, among other places.

Variant spellings of this surname include Knoz, Knozsly, Knozley, Knizley, Knisley, Knizly, Kneisley, Knesley, Knezley, Knisel, Kneisel, Kniesel, Knissell, Kneisell, Knoesel, Knisel, Kneidel and Kneisele. These different variations of the surname reflect changes in spelling according to regional dialects in the different parts of Europe.

Famous people with the name Kniesley

• Jamison Kniesley: A professional snowboarder, supported by Quiksilver and Facebook.
• Jason Kniesley: Founder and CEO of Socially Engaged Marketing Group and winner of the 2019 40 Under 40 Award.
• Bob Kniesley: Former member of the British Parliament.
• Nathan Kniesley: An innovator and academician who has authored many books on sustainable community development and environmental stewardship.
• Aaron Kniesley: A professional motorcycle racer and stuntman.
• Erwin Kniesley: A real estate developer and philanthropist.
• Curtis Kniesley: A Well-known photographer and fashion designer.
• David Kniesley: An avionics engineer and technical advisor for the military.
• Melinda Kniesley: A celebrity interior designer and TV personality.
• Miranda Kniesley: An actor and comedian.

Other surnames

Kniesly