KEEL

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Keel

The surname Keel is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word cēol, meaning "a ship". It is believed to have originated as an occupational surname for individuals who worked on or owned ships.

The Keel family name is primarily found in regions with a strong maritime presence, such as coastal areas and port towns. The surname may also have been adopted by individuals living near or working on a keel, which is a type of flat-bottomed boat used for transporting goods.

Over time, the surname Keel has branched out into numerous variations, including Keele and Keal, as well as compound surnames like Keeley and Keeling.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Keel include John Keel, an American author known for his work on unexplained phenomena, and Ronnie Keel, a British musician and vocalist.

Research into the Keel surname is ongoing, and further investigations may reveal additional insights into the history and significance of this distinguished British family name.

There are approximately 894 people named Keel in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,069th most common surname in Britain. Around 14 in a million people in Britain are named Keel.

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
Martin
Michael
Richard
Robert
Stephen

Female

Bridget
Caroline
Denise
Elizabeth
Gillian
Helen
Janine
Lisa
Margaret
Mary
Pamela
Ruth
Sara
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.