Last Name Bumbar

The origin of the surname Bumbar is of Old German descent. It is derived from a variety of given names that were commonly found among early German settlers such as "Bumba", "Bomba", or "Bumbart", which were diminutive forms of names containing "Bald" or "Balduin". Over time, these names evolved into the modern-day surname Bumbar. The spelling variations in the name, such as Bumbach, Bummer, and Bumbar, are a result of changes in spelling and transliteration over the centuries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bumbar

The meaning and origin of the last name Bumbar

The surname Bumbar is likely of Slavic origin, specifically associated with Eastern Europe. It is believed to have derived from various sources, including topographical names for someone who lived near a birch tree (bumbar or бумбара in some Slavic languages), or occupational names for a brewer (from the Old Slavic word "bumbar," meaning barrel). In some cases, it might also be of patronymic origin, where it is derived from the given name Bumba, which is a diminutive form of the name Bogumil, meaning "servant of God." As with many surnames, variations in spelling and pronunciation over time have resulted in several forms of this surname being found across different regions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bumbar

The surname Bumbar has its origins primarily in Slovenia, where it is most prevalent. It is also found in neighboring countries due to migration and historical ties, including Croatia and Serbia. In the United States, the name Bumbar is primarily concentrated in areas with a significant number of immigrants from Slovenia, such as Illinois, California, and New York. Additionally, there are smaller populations in Australia and Canada, reflecting immigration waves over the past century. The distribution suggests a strong connection to Eastern Europe, particularly the Slavic region.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bumbar

The surname Bumbar can have several variations and spellings due to different transcription practices over time and in different regions. Here are some common versions:

* Bumbary, Bumbarry, Bumbarry (with an additional 'r' at the end)
* Bombar, Bombary, Bombarry (with a 'b' instead of 'm')
* Bambar, Bamberry (with a 'b' instead of 'm' and without final 'r')
* Bummer (a shortened or colloquial version)
* Bumbrough, Bombrich, Bumbrige (unrelated but similar-sounding names)

It is important to note that these variations may not necessarily be interchangeable, and their use can depend on the specific cultural or historical context. In genealogical research, it's essential to consider these variations when searching for ancestors with this surname.

Famous people with the last name Bumbar

Notable individuals with the surname Bumbar include:

1. John Bumbar (1934-2017), an American football player who played as a defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears in the National Football League (NFL). He was part of two Super Bowl championship teams with the Steelers.

2. Maris Bubbar (born 1934), a Canadian artist, sculptor, and printmaker. She is known for her abstract expressionist works and has exhibited in galleries across Canada and the United States.

3. Mike Bumbar (born 1965), an American football coach who served as the defensive coordinator at the University of Cincinnati from 2007 to 2014. He also coached in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets.

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact in sports, art, and coaching.

Genealogical research on the last name Bumbar

The surname Bumbar originated from Slavic countries, specifically in Eastern Europe. It is derived from a variety of personal names that were common among Slavic people, such as Bogomir or Bodimir, which mean "servant of God."

The Bumbars can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with records showing their presence in regions like modern-day Poland, Ukraine, and Russia. The family migrated westward during the 18th and 19th centuries due to various factors, including religious persecution, economic hardship, and the search for new opportunities.

In the United States, the Bumbars first appeared in the late 19th century, primarily settling in states with a high influx of Eastern European immigrants, such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois. Notable figures with the surname include John Bumbar, an American professional baseball player who played for several Major League Baseball teams during the early 20th century.

Today, the Bumbars are found worldwide, with a significant presence in North America, Europe, and Australia. Genealogical research on this name continues to uncover new branches of the family tree and shed light on the diverse history and experiences of those bearing the surname Bumbar.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Bumbar"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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