Last Name Boe

Learn more about the origin of the last name Boe

The meaning and origin of the last name Boe

The surname Boe is of Old Norse origin, derived from the word 'bui' which means dwelling or farm. It was originally a nickname for someone who lived on or by a particular farmstead, and later became a hereditary surname. Over time, variations such as Bowe, Buie, and Both have emerged due to phonetic changes and regional dialects. The name Boe is most common in Scandinavian countries like Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, where it was brought by the Vikings during their migrations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Boe

The surname Boe is predominantly distributed in Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway and Denmark, due to its Norse origins. In Norway, it is most frequently found in the counties of Rogaland, Vestfold, and Hordaland, with a significant concentration in the city of Stavanger. In Denmark, the highest occurrences are noted in Jutland, especially in the regions of North Jutland and Central Jutland. Outside of Scandinavia, the name Boe can also be found in the United States, Canada, and other countries with significant Scandinavian populations, often as a result of immigration. In these locations, it is less common than in its native regions but still maintains a noticeable presence.

Variants and spellings of the last name Boe

The surname Boe possesses multiple variations and spellings due to differences in transcription and translation across time and regions. Some common variations include Böe, Boøe, and Bøe, which are found predominantly among Scandinavian populations. These variations reflect the use of different diacritical marks and letter combinations to represent the same sounds in various writing systems. Additionally, alterations like Bow, Bou, Bay, Beau, and Bowe may also be encountered due to Anglicization or migration. However, it is essential to note that these variations may lead to confusion when trying to trace genealogical roots. To minimize such complications, researchers may want to consult historical records, genealogy databases, and experts in Scandinavian linguistics for guidance on accurate identification of the surname's original spelling and origins.

Famous people with the last name Boe

Notable individuals with the surname Boe include:

1. Peter Boe, a Danish Olympic athlete who competed in the long jump and triple jump at the 2004 Summer Olympics. He set several national records during his career.

2. Elizabeth A. Boe, an American microbiologist who specializes in bacterial genetics and pathogenesis. She has made significant contributions to our understanding of Streptococcus pneumoniae, a leading cause of pneumonia and meningitis.

3. John Boehner, a former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, serving from 2011 to 2015. A Republican from Ohio, he was a key figure in U.S. politics for over two decades.

4. Signe Boe, a Norwegian actress who has appeared in numerous films and television series, including the popular Norwegian crime drama series "Mammon".

5. Anders Boe, a Norwegian author known for his crime novels featuring detective Frank Hald. His books have been translated into multiple languages and adapted for television.

Genealogical research on the last name Boe

The surname Boe is of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name "Böi" or "Bjørn," meaning bear. It is most prevalent in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden due to the Viking influence. In Norway, it was often spelled Bø or Beo. The Boe family in Denmark can trace their roots back to the 14th century with members holding various important positions within the kingdom over the centuries, such as knights, merchants, and clergy. In Sweden, the Boe lineage can be traced back to the 16th century, with many of its members being influential in military and political circles. The surname Boe also spread to other parts of Europe through Scandinavian immigration, particularly to Germany, England, and North America, where it remains common today.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Boe"
• 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 : 27 July 2025