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Last Name Borah

What is the origin of the last name Borah?

The last name Borah is of Indian origin, specifically from the state of Assam. It is a common surname among the Borah community, which is a sub-group within the larger Assamese community. The Borah community is traditionally involved in trade and commerce, and the name likely refers to this occupation.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Borah

The meaning and origin of the last name Borah

The surname Borah is of Indian origin and is commonly found among the Assamese people of Assam. It is believed to have derived from the Sanskrit word "vah" meaning 'to support' or 'to uphold'. The Borahs are traditionally a trading community, known for their business acumen and entrepreneurial skills. They are often associated with the textile and tea industries in Assam. The surname may also be associated with the Bora caste, which is a sub-group within the Assamese community. Over the years, many Borah families have spread out beyond Assam, establishing themselves in various parts of India and even in other countries. Today, the surname Borah is a symbol of pride and identity for many individuals of Assamese descent.

Geographical distribution of the last name Borah

The last name Borah is predominantly found in India, particularly in the state of Assam. This region has a significant population of people belonging to the Boro ethnic group, from which the surname Borah likely originates. The name may also be found in other parts of India, such as West Bengal and Meghalaya, where the Boro community has a presence. Outside of India, the surname Borah is not very common, but it may be found in small pockets of the Boro diaspora across the globe, particularly in countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Borah is primarily concentrated in India, specifically in regions where the Boro community resides.

Variants and spellings of the last name Borah

The last name Borah may have various spellings and variations, including Barras, Borea, Borree, Borra, Boru, Borrach, Borr, Borre, or Borich. These variations could be due to differences in pronunciation, regional accents, or changes in spelling over time. Some individuals may also choose to anglicize or adapt the name for easier pronunciation or to fit in with a different culture or language. Despite the different spellings and variations, all of these names can still be traced back to the original surname of Borah. The origin of the name Borah is believed to be of French or Spanish descent, with possible connections to the Basque region. Overall, the variations and spellings of the last name Borah showcase the diverse ways in which surnames can evolve and adapt over generations.

Famous people with the last name Borah

William Edgar Borah was a renowned American politician who served as a United States Senator from Idaho from 1907 to 1940. He was known for his strong stances on isolationism and non-interventionism during both World War I and World War II. Borah was a key figure in the Senate who played a crucial role in shaping American foreign policy during the early 20th century. Another famous individual with the last name Borah is Amos Emerson Borah, a noted American professor and author who specialized in European history. Borah's academic work focused on the social and political history of early modern France, and he was highly respected in his field. Both William Edgar Borah and Amos Emerson Borah made significant contributions to their respective fields and left a lasting impact on American society.

Genealogical research on the last name Borah

The last name Borah is of Jewish origin and is believed to have originated from the Hebrew name Baruch, meaning "blessed". The surname Borah is relatively rare and is found predominantly in Sephardic Jewish communities. The earliest recorded instances of the Borah surname date back to the mid-18th century in Portugal and Sephardic Jewish communities in North Africa. Some members of the Borah family migrated to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, establishing themselves in communities in New York, Texas, and California. Over time, the Borah surname has seen variations in spelling, such as Barra or Borat, as families adapted to the languages and cultures of their new homelands. Today, individuals with the last name Borah can be found in various countries around the world, continuing the legacy of their Sephardic Jewish heritage.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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