Is Kohl a first name?

Answered by Michael Wilson

Kohl is not commonly used as a first name. It is primarily known as a German surname derived from the word “kohl,” which means cabbage. The name Kohl has its origins in the Middle High German and Old High German languages, as well as Latin.

The surname Kohl typically originated as an occupational name for a merchant or cultivator of crops, particularly cabbage. In this sense, it was used to identify individuals involved in the trade or cultivation of cabbage or other similar crops. The name Kohl may also have been used to describe someone with physical characteristics associated with cabbage, such as having a round or stocky build.

It is important to note that while Kohl is primarily a surname, surnames can occasionally be used as first names. In some cases, individuals may choose to use their surname as a given name for various reasons, such as honoring family heritage or simply because they like the sound of the name. However, it is not a common practice with the name Kohl.

In personal experiences and observations, I have rarely come across individuals named Kohl as a first name. The name is more commonly associated with prominent individuals who bear the surname, such as former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl. However, it is worth mentioning that personal experiences and observations may vary, and it is always possible to encounter individuals who have chosen Kohl as their first name.

While Kohl is not typically used as a first name, it is a well-known German surname derived from the word for cabbage. It is primarily associated with individuals involved in the merchant or cultivation of crops, particularly cabbage.