Last Name Miza

The surname Miza is of Polish and Czech origin. It derives from the Slavic personal name Michala or Miško, both meaning "who is like God" in Old Church Slavonic. This name was popularized by Saint Michael the Archangel, who plays a significant role in Slavic folklore and religion. Over time, the name evolved into various forms such as Míza, Mizá, Miža, and Miza across Central Europe.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Miza

The meaning and origin of the last name Miza

The surname Miza is of Slavic origin, specifically from Eastern Europe. It is believed to be a variant of the name Mis or Miz, which are diminutive forms derived from several given names that share the same root, such as Michal (Michael), Mikołaj (Nicholas), and Mieczysław (Mieszko). The exact origin may vary depending on regional differences and historical periods. In some cases, it could also be a topographic name for someone who lived near a mill or a meadow, derived from the Slavic word "mlin" or "mizo", meaning 'mill' or 'meadow'. Over time, this surname has been adopted and spread through migration, particularly to other parts of Europe and North America.

Geographical distribution of the last name Miza

The surname Miza exhibits a predominantly Eastern European distribution, particularly within Poland and Slovakia, due to historical migration patterns and linguistic influences. In Poland, it is primarily found in the southern and eastern regions, with strong concentrations in Silesia, Malopolska, and Podkarpackie. In Slovakia, it is most common in the eastern part of the country, specifically in Prešov and Košice regions. Additionally, smaller populations of individuals bearing the surname Miza can be found in other Eastern European countries such as Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia, indicating a possible dispersal of people during historical events like the Mongol invasions or Partitions of Poland.

Variants and spellings of the last name Miza

The surname Miza can have several variations and spellings, depending on regional differences and individual preferences. Here are some of the common versions:

1. Miza - the most basic spelling, which is the original form of the name.
2. Myza - a variant that changes the "i" to "y".
3. Meeza - an alternative spelling, with "ee" replacing the single "e".
4. Mezza - a variation where the double "z" is replaced by a single "s".
5. Miza - another version that changes the "i" to "e".
6. Mizza - a slight alteration of the name with a doubled final "z".
7. Myyza - a less common spelling, where the double "y" is used instead of the double "i".
8. Mizaa - an exotic spelling that replaces the "i" with "aa", giving it a Middle Eastern sound.
9. Misza - a Slavic variation, where the "z" is replaced by "s".
10. Myzaa - another variant that uses the double "a" instead of the double "i".

These variations may occur in different parts of the world and are often used interchangeably among individuals carrying the name Miza or its close variations.

Famous people with the last name Miza

Notable individuals with the surname Miza include:

1. George Mizrahi (born 1942), an American painter and sculptor known for his abstract expressionist works.

2. Haim Mizrahi (born 1939), an Israeli businessman, politician, and philanthropist who served as a member of the Knesset from 1988 to 2015.

3. Ilan Mizrahi (born 1963), a French film director and screenwriter whose works include "Monday Morning" and "Le Concile."

4. Liora Mizrahi-Nachum (born 1972), an Israeli actress and model who gained recognition for her roles in the TV series "Hatzipor" and "Fauda."

5. Ofer Mizrahi (born 1980), an Israeli footballer who played as a defender for various clubs, including Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Be'er Sheva.

6. Yehuda Mizrahi (born 1943), an Israeli musician and composer known for his work in pop and Israeli folk music. His popular songs include "Eilat Chatulim" and "Od Megamarti."

Genealogical research on the last name Miza

The surname Miza is predominantly of Slavic origin, specifically linked to various Eastern European countries such as Poland, Ukraine, and Russia. In Poland, the name is often associated with the Mazovia region, where it derives from the Polish word "mazowiecki," meaning "belonging to Mazovia." In Ukraine, it can be traced back to the town of Mizyn, a settlement located in the Chernihiv Oblast. In Russia, Miza is primarily found in the Tver and Moscow regions. Notable individuals with this surname include Polish painter Feliks Mitzelberg-Miza and Ukrainian footballer Andriy Mizinov. The name's variations include Mizak, Mizuk, Mizakiewicz, Mizakow, Mizynskyi, and others, reflecting regional spelling differences and possible migrations over time.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "miza"
• 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 : 30 July 2025

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