ABEL
Abel
Abel is a surname of British origin that can be traced back to medieval times. The name is derived from the Hebrew given name Abel, meaning "breath" or "vapour". The surname Abel is believed to have been introduced to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
Origins
The surname Abel is thought to have started as a personal name and later evolved into a hereditary surname passed down from generation to generation. It is likely that individuals who were known for their virtuous or honourable qualities were given the surname Abel as a mark of distinction.
Distribution
The surname Abel can be found throughout the United Kingdom, with concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London. Over the centuries, the name has spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Individuals
- Frederick Abel (1827–1902): A British chemist who is known for his work on guncotton and cordite.
- Sidney James/Abel (1918–1997): A British comedian and actor known for his work in the Carry On film series.
- John Jacob Abel (1857–1938): An American biochemist and pharmacologist of British descent, known for his pioneering work on hormones.
Legacy
The surname Abel has endured through the centuries and continues to be passed down through generations of families. Today, individuals with the surname Abel can be found in various professions and walks of life, contributing to the rich tapestry of British society.
In conclusion, the surname Abel is a testament to the enduring nature of British surnames and their ability to connect individuals to their historical and cultural roots.
There are approximately 4,218 people named Abel in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,216th most common surname in Britain. Around 65 in a million people in Britain are named Abel.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Catherine
- Deborah
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Janet
- Joan
- Joanne
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.