Surname Reinwald - Meaning and Origin

Reinwald: What does the surname Reinwald mean?

The last name Reinwald has a long and rich history that dates back to a Germanic origin. The name is derived from the word Reinwald, which means “wise ruler”. It was used historically to denote a person of power and authority, such as a ruler or leader.

For centuries, the name Reinwald has held a strong significance in Europe, where it was used as a surname by those of noble or royal status. Historically, Reinwalds were seen as wise counselors who offered wise advice and showed great strength in ruling their land.

Today, the name Reinwald is still found mainly throughout Germanic countries such as Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. In some regions the name is found in different variations, such as Reinwalder, Reinwalden, and Rainwald. It is also possible to find individuals who trace their lineage to the Reinwalds of the past, due to the name’s enduring legacy.

Throughout the world, the last name Reinwald is indicative of a strong and wise legacy that has endured for centuries. Those who carry the name should remember their ancestors’ steadfast strength and courage and strive to honor their legacy in all that they do.

Reinwald: Where does the name Reinwald come from?

The last name Reinwald is commonly found in many countries throughout Europe, especially in Germany where it originated. Reinwald is derived from the Germanic personal name Reginwald, literally meaning ‘protection of the wise’.

The name is especially common in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Czech Republic. In Germany, it ranks 1,625 in frequency, and in Austria and Switzerland it ranks 1,917 and 2,512 respectively.

Reinwald is also found in the United States and Canada, but it is much less common. In the United States, it ranks 29,575 in frequency and is particularly concentrated in the Midwest and South Atlantic regions. In Canada, it ranks 13,457 in frequency and is especially concentrated in Ontario.

In addition, it is commonly found in Australia, especially in the states of New South Wales and Queensland. In Australia, it ranks 4,386 in population. It is also found in other countries, such as Finland, Norway and the Netherlands, although in much lower frequencies.

All in all, the last name Reinwald can be found in many countries worldwide, but most commonly in Central and Northern Europe with Germany as the main source. In the United States, it is substantially less common but there are concentrations in certain areas, such as the Midwest and South Atlantic regions.

Variations of the surname Reinwald

Reinwald (or Reinwalt) is a German surname derived from the German words "Rein" and "Wald", meaning "pure" and "forest" respectively. The name first appears in recorded history in records dating back to 1224 AD, although it's possible the name is much older.

The variants and spellings of Reinwald include Reinwalt, Reinwalder, Rheinwald, Reinwaltz, Reinwolt, Rheinwalt, Reinwalde, Reinwaldt, Rheinwaltz, Rhinevalt, Rhinewald, Rhinewalder, Rhinewaldt, Rheinvolt, Reinwalz, Reinwalds, and Reinwaldson. There is some disagreement amongst historians as to whether the name Reinwald or Reinwalt is the original/correct spelling of the surname, although both variants can be found in records.

Surnames of similar origin to Reinwald include Rainwald, Reinewald, Reenwald, Reinswald, Reinwalden, Reinhalt, and Rhynevalt. These names may or may not have similar or related meanings, as the origin of some of these names is unknown.

Overall, Reinwald is an old and fairly uncommon surname with its roots firmly entrenched in Germanic history. Its variants and related surnames demonstrate the many different spellings and interpretations of the name that have cropped up over the centuries.

Famous people with the name Reinwald

• Brigitte Reinwald: German actress
• Hans Reinwald III: Swiss American businessman, philanthropist and hedge-fund manager
• Karl Reinwald: German cryptologist and sculptor
• Werner Reinwald: German botanist and floriculturist
• Frederic Reinwald: Austrian chef and restaurateur
• Charlotte Reinwald: English socialite
• William Reinwald: American soldier and Medal of Honor recipient
• Adam Reinwald: German-Swiss physicist and professor
• Julien Reinwald: French pianist and composer
• Andreas Reinwald: German writer and social critic

Other surnames

Reinwaldt