Boel

Boel is a name used as both a given name and a surname in parts of Europe. In Dutch-speaking and Flemish regions, the spellings Boel and Boël with a diacritic are found. In Danish contexts, Boel is often used without diacritics as a standalone given name. The exact origin and meaning vary by language and family history.

As a given name, Boel may be an autonomous name or a short form of longer names in Flemish or Danish usage. As a surname, Boel or Boël can be patronymic or derived from toponymy, depending on regional naming practices. The form with the diacritic Boël is particularly associated with Francophone Belgium, reflecting French-language orthography.

Geographically, Boel is most commonly seen in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark, with diaspora communities elsewhere in Europe and beyond. The name has appeared in historical records dating back several centuries, and its spelling variants reflect shifts in language and administration.

In contemporary times, Boel continues to be used as a personal name and as a surname, though it remains relatively uncommon compared with more widespread names.