Last Name Ballas

The last name "Ballas" is of Hungarian origin. It is derived from the Hungarian word "balla," which means "white-haired" or "gray-haired." This surname was often given to individuals with gray or white hair, or to those who had a pallid complexion.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ballas

The meaning and origin of the last name Ballas

The surname Ballas is of Hungarian origin, deriving from the Hungarian word "bálasz," meaning "freeman." This surname was typically given to individuals who were landowners or held a higher social status in Hungarian society. The name may have also evolved from the word "bal" which means left in Hungarian, suggesting that it could have denoted individuals who were left-handed. Over time, the surname Ballas has spread beyond Hungary to other countries, particularly to those with a significant Hungarian immigrant population. Today, individuals with the surname Ballas can be found in various parts of the world, carrying with them the heritage and history of their Hungarian ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ballas

The last name Ballas has a diverse geographical distribution, with significant concentrations in both Europe and the United States. In Europe, the name is particularly prevalent in Greece, where it is of Greek origin and is believed to be derived from the word "vallos," meaning a small stream or valley. Other European countries with notable populations of individuals with the last name Ballas include Germany, Hungary, and Romania. In the United States, the name is most commonly found in states with large Greek-American communities, such as New York, Illinois, and California. Overall, the surname Ballas can be found in various parts of the world, reflecting the diverse origins and migrations of individuals with this name throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ballas

The last name Ballas can be spelled and found in various ways, including Bala, Balas, Ballis, Balaus, Ballius, and Ballash. These alternative spellings may be the result of transliteration or anglicization of the original surname. Common variations of the name may also include Ballast, Ballos, Bolles, and Bailas. The name Ballas is of Greek origin and may have different versions based on regional dialects or historical influences. Despite the variations in spelling, the surname is often pronounced as "bah-las" or "bal-las" by English speakers. Overall, the name Ballas and its alternate spellings have preserved a shared root and cultural heritage within different communities around the world.

Famous people with the last name Ballas

One of the most famous people with the last name Ballas is Mark Ballas, a renowned dancer and choreographer who gained fame as a professional dancer on the television show "Dancing with the Stars." Another notable individual is his father, Corky Ballas, also a professional dancer who appeared on the same show as a dance instructor. Additionally, actress Barbara Ballas is well-known for her roles in various films and television shows, including "NCIS: Los Angeles" and "The Mentalist." The Ballas family has made a significant impact in the world of entertainment, with their talents and contributions recognized and celebrated by fans and critics alike.

Genealogical research on the last name Ballas

The last name Ballas is of Hungarian origin, derived from the given name "Balla," which means "strong" or "brave." The surname may have originated as a nickname for an individual who possessed these qualities. The Ballas family can be found in various regions of Hungary, with a significant presence in the historical Kingdom of Hungary. Genealogical research on the Ballas surname reveals a rich history of noble families, landowners, and prominent figures in Hungarian society. Over the centuries, members of the Ballas family have spread to other countries, including the United States, where they have established themselves and contributed to their new communities. By tracing the lineage of the Ballas surname, one can uncover a fascinating tapestry of familial connections and historical significance.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Ballas"
• 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 : 10 June 2025

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