Surname Vogel - Meaning and Origin
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From Folklore to Fact: A Genetic Odyssey Unraveling the History of the Vogel Clan at iGENEA
My journey with iGENEA illuminated the deeper mysteries of my family history, tracing the origin and stories of my surname, 'Vogel.' The genetic analysis validated familial tales, deepened my sense of belonging, and fostered a profound appreciation for my ancestors.
Z. Vogel
read moreVogel: What does the surname Vogel mean?
Vogel is a German surname that translates to "bird" in English. Originating in the Germanic regions of Europe, it is a common surname and also used frequently as a part of compound names like Vogelsang (birdsong) and Vogelstein (birdstone). The origination of this surname isn’t precisely known but it likely comes from a nickname or an occupational moniker referring to a birdcatcher, a breeder or someone who acted or had the characteristics like a bird. The surname spread across Europe due to early migrations with different variations evolving in different regions. It is also found among Ashkenazi Jews, possibly adopted for its symbolic connotations in Jewish tradition. Today, Vogel is a common surname in Germany, Austria, The Netherlands, and among people of these descents worldwide.
Order DNA origin analysisVogel: Where does the name Vogel come from?
The last name Vogel is of German origin, and it translates to "bird" in English. It was traditionally adopted as a surname by people who were bird catchers or traders by profession, or occasionally by someone who had bird-like characteristics. Alternatively, it may have been used as a house name, derived from a sign or sculpture on the building.
Nowadays, Vogel is common in Germany, Austria, and the United States. In Germany and Austria, it is typically a surname, while in the United States it is both a first name and a last name. It is the 44th most common surname in Germany, and the 873rd most common in the United States. Given the historical origins of the name and the powerful influence of German immigration to the US, it's not surprising that Vogel is a common name in areas with significant populations of German descent. However, it’s worth mentioning that the surname has also been anglicized in some instances, and its bearers include people of non-German heritage as well.
Variations of the surname Vogel
The surname Vogel is of German origin and it means 'bird.' Variants and similar surnames of Vogel can include Vogels, Vogle, Vogl, Vögel, Fogle, Fogel, Fogal, Fogl, Voegel, and Vogeler.
In certain parts of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland the surname can be spelled as Fogel or Fugel. In the Netherlands, the surname is commonly spelled as Vogels.
It's worth noting that Fowl or Fowler could also be considered variations of the surname Vogel in English, due to the equivalent meaning of 'bird'; however, these are distinct surnames with their own lineage and may not trace back to the same origin as Vogel.
Sometimes the name could also be combined with other words as part of compound surnames, like Vogelsang ("birdsong"), Vogelstein ("birdstone"), or Vogelbaum ("bird tree").
Vogel is a fairly common surname in Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and among Ashkenazi Jews, tracing back to numerous separate lines of descent. Therefore, not all people with the surname Vogel are related and the meaning of the surname could vary based on regional dialects and linguistic evolution.
Famous people with the name Vogel
- Paula Vogel: A popular American playwright who won the Pulitzer Prize for her work "How I Learned to Drive".
- Mike Vogel: An American actor recognized for his roles in "The Help" and "Cloverfield".
- Vogel German: An actor known for his part in the film "V for Vendetta".
- Jessica Vogel: A renowned chef who appeared on the cooking show "Hell's Kitchen".
- Tanya Vogel: A former professional soccer player and current Director of Athletics at George Washington University.
- Dan Vogel: A notable historian and author, specializing in the history of the Latter Day Saint movement.
- Steve Vogel: A renowned journalist, who has worked as a foreign correspondent and investigative reporter for The Washington Post.
- Alfred Vogel: A Swiss naturopath and herbalist, known for developing remedies based on the healing properties of plants.
- Jeremy Vogel: A renowned member of the US Air Force who later became a judge for the United States District Court.
- Amy Vogel: A contemporary artist best known for her assemblage sculptures.