knittel

Knittel is a surname of German origin. It is believed to derive from a Middle High German word, likely "knittel," which could refer to a short, thick stick or cudgel. This suggests a possible occupational origin, perhaps for someone who made or used such implements, or a nickname given to a person fitting a similar description.

The name is found in various regions of Germany and has spread to other countries through migration. Variations in spelling may exist due to historical transcription practices and regional dialects. As with many surnames, the exact original bearers of the name Knittel are not definitively known, but its linguistic roots point to a medieval German context.

Families bearing the surname Knittel have been documented throughout history in Germany, and later in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia due to immigration patterns. Genealogical research often traces the lineage of Knittel families back to specific ancestral towns or villages within Germany. The name itself, while not exceedingly common, is recognizable within German-speaking communities.