Feigley Surname

Introduction

The surname Feigley is a unique and distinct surname that has a rich history and heritage. With an incidence rate of 343 in the United States, the Feigley surname is not one of the most common surnames, but it has a fascinating story behind it. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Feigley surname, its meaning, variations, distribution, and notable individuals who bear this surname.

Origins and Meaning of the Feigley Surname

The Feigley surname has German origins and is derived from the Middle High German word "veigele" or "vogel," which means 'bird.' This surname likely originated as a nickname for someone who resembled a bird in some way, either through physical appearance or behavior. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational surname for someone who worked with birds or as a bird catcher.

Another possible origin of the Feigley surname is from the Yiddish word "feigel," which means 'bird.' It is likely that Jewish individuals bearing this surname have roots in Eastern Europe, particularly in regions where Yiddish was spoken.

Variations of the Feigley Surname

Like many surnames, the Feigley surname has several variations and spellings, including Feigel, Feygel, Veigel, Vogel, and Fogle. These variations may have been the result of clerical errors, regional dialects, or anglicized versions of the original surname.

Distribution of the Feigley Surname

The Feigley surname is most commonly found in the United States, with an incidence rate of 343. It is likely that the majority of individuals with the Feigley surname in the US have German or Jewish ancestry. Other countries where the Feigley surname may be found include Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other German-speaking regions.

Within the United States, the Feigley surname is most prevalent in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. These states have historically had large German immigrant populations, which is likely why the Feigley surname is concentrated in these areas.

Notable Individuals with the Feigley Surname

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bear the Feigley surname. One such individual is John Feigley, a German-American philanthropist who founded several charitable organizations in the early 20th century. Another notable figure is Sarah Feigley, a prominent Jewish activist who fought for civil rights and social justice issues.

In the modern era, there are several Feigleys who have made a name for themselves in various fields, including sports, entertainment, and business. One such individual is Michael Feigley, a professional basketball player who has played for several NBA teams. Another notable individual is Rebecca Feigley, a successful actress who has appeared in several popular television shows and films.

Conclusion

The Feigley surname has a rich and diverse history, with roots in Germany and Eastern Europe. It is a unique surname that is not as common as others, but it has a fascinating etymology and meaning. Through exploring the origins, variations, distribution, and notable individuals with the Feigley surname, we gain a better understanding of this surname's significance and impact on history.

The surname Feigley within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same takes place in the case of Feigley, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that can be found in most of the countries associated with globe. In the same manner there are nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of people because of the surname Feigley is more than in other countries.

The map associated with Feigley surname

1. United States (343)