Last Name Orlowska

Learn more about the origin of the last name Orlowska

The meaning and origin of the last name Orlowska

The surname Orłowska is a Polish variant derived from the male name Orłowski, which originates from the Old Polish word "orzeł" meaning 'eagle'. This surname was likely used as a topographic or occupational name for someone who lived near an eagle's nest, or possibly for a birdcatcher. The feminine form of the surname, Orłowska, came into existence when women in Poland began adopting surnames during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a change that was prompted by the Partitions of Poland and subsequent cultural assimilation efforts. In modern times, Orłowska is found among the Polish diaspora around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Orlowska

The surname Orlowska is predominantly of Polish and Slovak origin. In Poland, it is most commonly found in regions such as Silesia, Lesser Poland, and Masovia, reflecting historical migration patterns and settlements. In Slovakia, it can be found in the eastern and central parts of the country. There are also significant numbers of individuals with the surname Orlowska in other Eastern European countries like Ukraine, Belarus, and the Czech Republic, as a result of historical population movements and cultural exchange. Additionally, due to migration and diaspora, Orlowska can be found in various parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and Western Europe.

Variants and spellings of the last name Orlowska

The surname Orłowska, which originates from Poland, can have various spellings due to differences in transliteration and transcribing methods. Some common variations include:

1. Orlowska
2. Orlowskaya (Russian transliteration)
3. Orlowski (masculine form of the surname)
4. Orolowska (phonetic spelling)
5. Orlowska (a possible alternative spelling)
6. Aurłowska (old Polish orthography)
7. Orłowskaya (Belarusian transliteration)
8. Aurlowska (another phonetic variation)
9. Urlowska (misinterpreted or misspelled version)
10. Orlovska (incorrect spelling, as it is a different surname of Russian origin)

While these are some common variations and spellings of the surname Orłowska, it's essential to note that name spelling can be influenced by factors such as region, immigration history, and personal preference.

Famous people with the last name Orlowska

Notable individuals with the surname Orlowska include:

1. Agnieszka Holland (born 1948), a Polish film director and screenwriter who has directed films such as "Europa Europa" and "In Darkness."

2. Olga Tokarczuk (born 1962), a Polish novelist, essayist, and physician who won the Man Booker International Prize in 2018 for her novel "Flights."

3. Joanna Orlowska (born 1975), a Polish actress known for her roles in films such as "In Treatment" and "The Lure."

4. Monika Orlowska (born 1996), a Polish rhythmic gymnast who won the individual all-around gold medal at the 2013 European Youth Olympic Festival.

5. Agnieszka Orlowska, a mathematician specializing in combinatorics and mathematical logic, known for her work on Ramsey theory and model theory. She is a professor at Rutgers University.

Genealogical research on the last name Orlowska

The surname Orlowska is of Polish origin and is a variant of Orłowski, derived from the Old Slavic personal name Orłok or Orzech (meaning eagle). This surname was likely originally a nickname for someone with a strong, eagle-like character or for someone who lived near an eagle's nest.

The earliest records of the Orlowska family date back to the 16th century in Poland, particularly in regions such as Lesser Poland and Greater Poland. The name spread to other parts of Europe due to historical events like the Partitions of Poland (1772-1795) and the Jewish diaspora. Notable figures with this surname include Polish-Jewish poet Anna Orlowska (born 1964), and Polish actress Hanna Orłowska (1890-1934).

Today, the Orlowska name is most prevalent in Poland but can also be found in other countries with a significant Polish diaspora, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Genealogical research for individuals with this surname can be conducted through records in Poland, Jewish genealogy databases, and immigration records from various nations.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "orlowska"
• 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 : 26 July 2025