"Torkelson" is a unique surname that can be spelled out using the International Phonetic Alphabet, which is a standard system used to represent sounds in language. In IPA, "Torkelson" would be spelled as /ˈtɔːrkəlsən/. The first syllable, "Tor," is pronounced with a long "o" sound and a softly pronounced "r." The second syllable, "kel," is pronounced with a hard "k" sound and a short "e." The final syllable, "son," is pronounced with a soft "s" and a short "o." This phonetic transcription can be used to accurately pronounce and spell the name "Torkelson."
The word Torkelson does not have a widely known etymology. It appears to be a surname of Scandinavian origin, particularly associated with Norway and Sweden. Surnames often derive from patronymic or locational sources. In this case, Torkelson could potentially suggest a patronymic surname derived from the male given name Torkel or Torkil, which itself is derived from Old Norse elements meaning Thor (the Norse god of thunder) and cauldron. However, without more specific information about its origins, it is challenging to determine the exact etymology of the surname Torkelson.