fogel

Fogel refers to a surname of Ashkenazi Jewish origin. It is derived from the Yiddish word "fogel," meaning "bird." This surname likely originated as a nickname or a metonymic occupational name, possibly for someone who was a bird catcher, a bird seller, or someone who had characteristics associated with birds, such as being swift or cheerful.

The Fogel surname is found in various Jewish communities throughout Eastern Europe, particularly in areas that were historically part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Over time, as Jewish populations emigrated, the Fogel surname spread to other parts of the world, including North America, Israel, and Western Europe.

Notable individuals with the surname Fogel include various figures in academia, arts, business, and other fields. The name's prevalence reflects the common practice of adopting descriptive or occupational surnames within Jewish culture. Like many surnames, its exact origin can vary slightly depending on the specific family lineage and geographic region. The name continues to be carried by individuals of Jewish heritage globally.