MICHELSEN
Michelsen
Origin and Meaning: Michelsen is a surname of Scandinavian origin, with Danish and Norwegian roots. The surname is derived from the given name Mikkel, which is the Danish and Norwegian form of the name Michael.
Distribution and Frequency: The surname Michelsen is most commonly found in Denmark and Norway, reflecting its Scandinavian origin. It is not a widely distributed surname in the United Kingdom but may be found in regions with historical connections to Scandinavia.
Variants: Variants of the surname Michelsen include Michelson, Mikkelsen, and Michellson, reflecting variations in spelling and pronunciation over time and across different regions.
Notable Individuals:
- Anders Michelsen (1850–1935): Danish explorer and scholar known for his contributions to the study of Arctic explorations.
- Margrethe Michelsen (b. 1965): Norwegian artist renowned for her contemporary artwork blending traditional and modern influences.
Historical Significance: The Michelsen surname has historical significance in the context of Danish and Norwegian culture, particularly in relation to prominent figures in the fields of exploration, academia, and the arts. Its use as a surname reflects the enduring influence of Scandinavian heritage in modern times.
References:
- Hanks, Patrick, et al. The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press, 2016.
- “Michelsen Surname.” Ancestry, www.ancestry.co.uk/name-origin?surname=michelsen.
There are approximately 51 people named Michelsen in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Michelsen.
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.