Last Name Bald

The surname Bald is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "bald," meaning "brave" or "bold." It likely originated as a nickname for someone who displayed these characteristics.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bald

The meaning and origin of the last name Bald

The surname Bald originated as a nickname given to someone with a shiny or hairless head. The word "bald" comes from the Old English word "bald" or "beald," which means "bold" or "brave." In medieval times, being bald was often associated with age and wisdom. The surname Bald can be found in various regions across Europe, with variations such as Balda, Baldo, Balder, and Balde. It is believed to have been used as a descriptive or occupational surname for someone with a distinctive physical trait or profession related to baldness. Over time, the surname Bald has evolved and spread to different countries as people migrated and intermingled, resulting in its presence in diverse cultures and languages.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bald

The last name Bald is most commonly found in Germany, with a concentration in the regions of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and North Rhine-Westphalia. It is also prevalent in Austria, specifically in the areas of Upper Austria and Lower Austria. In addition, the surname Bald can be found in Scandinavian countries such as Sweden and Norway, as well as in the United States, particularly in states like Texas, California, and Illinois. The name has also been noted in the United Kingdom, specifically in England and Scotland. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Bald indicates a strong presence in German-speaking countries, with some presence in Scandinavian regions and the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bald

The last name "Bald" can have several variations and spellings, including Bauld, Bawld, Balde, Balld, and Balled. These variations may be the result of different dialects and regional accents over time, leading to differences in how the name is pronounced and spelled. It is common for surnames to evolve and change in spelling as they are passed down through generations, particularly in cases where literacy levels were low and names were recorded phonetically. Additionally, migration and immigration can also play a role in the variations of surnames, as individuals may adapt or anglicize their names to fit in with their new surroundings. As a result, the last name "Bald" may have several different forms depending on the specific family history and circumstances.

Famous people with the last name Bald

The most famous individuals with the last name Bald include American actress Hilarie Burton, known for her role in the television series "One Tree Hill," British actor Timothy Balding, who appeared in various British television shows such as "The Bill" and "EastEnders," and American professional wrestler Jonathan Rechner, better known by his ring name "Balls Mahoney." Additionally, American actor Timothy Busfield has also made a name for himself in the entertainment industry with roles in popular TV shows like "Thirtysomething" and "The West Wing." These individuals have achieved recognition and success in their respective fields, contributing to the legacy of the Bald surname in the public eye.

Genealogical research on the last name Bald

The surname Bald is of English origin, deriving from the Old English word "bald," meaning "brave" or "bold." It is believed to have been used as a nickname for a person who displayed these characteristics. Genealogical research shows that individuals with the surname Bald can be found throughout England, with historical records dating back to the Middle Ages in various counties such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Surrey. The Bald family name has also been documented in Scotland, where it is thought to have been brought by English settlers. Over the centuries, the surname Bald has likely evolved and branched out into different lineages, with some individuals emigrating to other countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Today, individuals with the last name Bald can be found worldwide, with a diverse range of family histories and backgrounds.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Bald"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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