Surname Keilen - Meaning and Origin
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Keilen: What does the surname Keilen mean?
The surname Keilen is derived from the Dutch, German, and Scandinavian language. It is a variation of the word “Keil”, meaning "wedge" or "gable". The occupational meaning of the name is a pre-medieval builder of triangles and arches - in other words, an expert craftsman.
Historically, the Keilen surname often referred to someone in the stone masonry trade, as early as the 1400s. It denotes the individual's nickname or trade specialty, and is also associated with the building of castles and fortifications. During the standardization of surnames later in history, the name Keilen is mostly interchangeable with “Klay” or “Kley”.
Keilen is a unique surname, not especially common but far from rare. Today, it is most often seen in Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Scandinavia, and the United States of America. The Keilen surname is associated with good workmanship, and is often seen in families with various artisans and professionals such as builders, architects, and mechanics.
Overall, Keilen is a strong and distinct surname shared by a community of hardworking and knowledgeable individuals. Its connection to artisanship and craft further grounds the name in its rich history of labor and skill.
Order DNA origin analysisKeilen: Where does the name Keilen come from?
The last name Keilen is most commonly found in Germany, where it is estimated that approximately 1,014 people bear the name. The name is also prevalent in the Netherlands, with some estimates indicating nearly 11,000 people carrying the Keilen family name. Smaller numbers of Keilens can be found in countries throughout Europe, with Belgium, Luxemburg, France, Austria, and Switzerland all boasting citizens with the surname.
Keilens also have a presence in the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Michigan, although the numbers are comparatively fewer. The name can also be found in Canada, and in smaller numbers in countries across Australia, Latin America, and Asia.
The origins of the Keilen surname are uncertain, though it may be derived from a commonly-used name in the Middle Ages. The name could mirror a Central German word for "quill" or "smaller canal" in a river. It may also refer to a particular worker, such as a kiln worker. However, more research is needed to definitively trace the name's connection to its origins.
Variations of the surname Keilen
Keilen is a German surname, commonly found all over the world. It is also spelt as Kielen and Kelien, and can be found with varieties in spelling such as Keilin, Kaelin, Kaelyn, Kailin, Kailyn, Kailey, Kaylin, and Kyleen.
The surname Keilen is found in different countries such as the United States, Canada, England, Germany, Netherlands, Austria, Scotland, Wales, France, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Switzerland, and other parts of Europe.
The etymology of the surname Keilen is derived from the German word "Kiel", often used to describe a body of water, or a peninsula. The suffix “-en” is attached to denote a person from this area. It is likely that a person bearing this surname had an ancestor from Kiel.
The surname Keilen was commonly given to families living in the city or region of Kiel, and over the centuries it spread to different parts of Europe as people migrated and relocated. Today, many people bearing the surname Keilen are descendants of the early German settlers to America, and many of them have established themselves in different countries around the world.
Variations of the surname Keilen exist in other languages, such as the Dutch “Keijlen”, the Welsh “Keylyn”, the Scottish “Kaylean”, and the English “Kaylen”. In certain parts of Europe, it is also found as “Keal” and “Keel”.
The surname Keilen is one of the most common German surnames and is sure to be found in many parts of the world. Despite its variations, it still denotes a person of German origin.
Famous people with the name Keilen
- Konrad Keilen: German professional ice hockey center
- Kimberly Keilen: Four-time Emmy Award-winning costume designer
- Harry Keilen: American water skier
- Brian Keilen: Former player for the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League
- Rita Keilen: American photographer and model
- William Keilen: Canadian curler
- Thomas Keilen: American hairdresser
- Ernest Keilen: Austrian theoretical physicist
- Sonia Keilen: Former professional ballerina
- Jack Keilen: Belgian international football player