Surname Vermeulen - Meaning and Origin

Vermeulen: What does the surname Vermeulen mean?

The last name Vermeulen is of Dutch origin and is derived from the Dutch word "molen" which means "mill". The prefix "ver" was often added to surnames to imply occupation or place of residence. Therefore, Vermeulen translates to "from the mill" or "miller", suggesting that the original bearers of the name either lived near a mill or were mill workers. This name is very common in the Netherlands and Belgium, often used in the Flemish region. It is one of many Dutch surnames derived from occupations or the place where the family lived.

Vermeulen: Where does the name Vermeulen come from?

Vermeulen is a surname of Dutch and Flemish origin. The name is patronymic in nature and means "son of Vermeul," which in turn is a derivative of the given name Vermund. The suffix "-en" added to this implies descent. In Middle Dutch, Vermund means “Guardian of the raven". Vermeulen is especially common in the Netherlands, Belgium, and in regions where Dutch-speaking people have historically immigrated, such as South Africa. It is also found among Dutch expat communities around the world. Despite the passage of centuries, the last name Vermeulen still holds a strong presence particularly among the Dutch and Flemish populace. Today, people with this surname can be found in a range of professions, from sports and the arts to science and academia. It remains a long-lasting link to Dutch and Flemish heritage and ancestry.

Variations of the surname Vermeulen

The surname Vermeulen is primarily of Dutch origin, but can also be found in Belgian and South African communities due to Dutch colonization. It is derived from a profession, specifically referring to "the miller," as in someone who owns or operates a grain mill. The name suggests strong, industrious connotations.

Alternative spellings or similar surnames might include Vermeulen's other forms such as Vermeule, Vermeul, Vermuellen, or van Vermeulen, wherein "Van" denotes "from" signifying a geographical origin attached to the surname. Variants could also involve a change in suffixes, such as in Vermeulens, Vermeules, or Vermeulers.

A few other surnames share roots with Vermeulen due to their relation to the miller profession. These include names like Mueller, Miller, Müller, and Moeller, particularly popular in German-speaking regions. There are also French equivalents like Meunier.

The intertwined history of Belgium and The Netherlands lends a dual nationality to certain versions of the name, too. For instance, the Flemish variation Vermeulen could be found alongside the Wallonian Vermolen.

Given the influence of the Dutch around the world, don't be surprised to find variations of the surname 'Vermeulen' in unexpected places such as the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand among communities with Dutch ancestry.

Famous people with the name Vermeulen

• Thomas Vermeulen: Dutch painter.
• Jean Paul Vermeulen: prominent diplomat who served as archbishop of Utrecht.
• Bob Vermeulen: Dutch reality television personality and actor.
• Abel Vermeulen: Dutch musician and composer.
• Christiaan Vermeulen: Dutch explorer and author.
• R.C. Vermeulen: Dutch entrepreneur and politician.
• Toon Vermeulen: Dutch actor.
• Richelle Vermeulen: Dutch singer and guitarist.
• Robby Vermeulen: Dutch singer-songwriter.
• Jelle Vermeulen: Dutch footballer.
• Jochen Vermeulen: Dutch footballer.
• Julius Vermeulen: Dutch entrepreneur and philanthropist.
• Paul Vermeulen: Dutch actress.
• Nadia Vermeulen: Dutch painter.
• Bart Vermeulen: Dutch alternative rock musician.
• Bas Vermeulen: Dutch photographer.
• Freek Vermeulen: Dutch entrepreneur.
• Ronald Vermeulen: Belgian painter.
• Gerd Vermeulen Dutch jazz drummer.
• Herbert Vermeulen: Dutch pianist, organist and composer.

Other surnames

VermeulVermeule