Discover people named Irene Turkelson

The last name Turkelson has its origins in Eastern Europe, particularly among Jewish communities, where it is often considered a patronymic surname derived from the Yiddish or Hebrew name "Turkel," which itself may relate to the word for "turtle" or "tortoise," symbolizing longevity or wisdom. The suffix "-son" indicates "son of," suggesting that the name originally referred to the son of someone named Turkel. This surname likely emerged in the context of Jewish naming traditions, where surnames were often adopted based on personal characteristics, occupations, or ancestral names. Variations of Turkelson can be found in different cultures, including Turkel, Turchin, or Turchik, reflecting regional linguistic differences and adaptations. In some cases, the name may also appear in altered forms due to transliteration from Cyrillic or other alphabets, leading to variations in spelling and pronunciation across countries. Overall, the surname Turkelson encapsulates a rich cultural heritage, linking its bearers to their ancestral roots and historical identities.