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Last Name Pai

What is the origin of the last name Pai?

The last name Pai has origins in various countries. In China, Pai is a Chinese surname that is transliterated from the Chinese character 白, meaning "white" or "pure." In India, the surname Pai is commonly found among Konkani-speaking Gaud Saraswat Brahmins, and the origin of the surname can be traced back to the state of Goa. In Portugal, Pai is a common surname of Portuguese origin, derived from the Portuguese word for "father." Overall, the last name Pai has diverse origins and meanings depending on the region and culture.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Pai

The meaning and origin of the last name Pai

The surname Pai is of Chinese origin and is common among the Hoklo (Hokkien) people of southern China and Taiwan. It is also found among the Hakka people. The name has several possible meanings and origins. One possible origin is from the Chinese character 柏 (Bai), which means cypress tree. Another possible origin is from the Chinese character 白 (Bai), which means white. The surname Pai may also be derived from the name of a place in ancient China. Overall, the surname Pai is a common and ancient Chinese surname with various possible meanings and origins, often linked to nature or geographic features. It is a surname that carries cultural significance and a connection to Chinese history and heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pai

The last name Pai is most commonly found in India, particularly in the states of Karnataka and Maharashtra. In Karnataka, Pai is a common surname among the Konkani-speaking community, as well as among the Tulu-speaking community in coastal regions. In Maharashtra, the surname is prevalent among the Gaud Saraswat Brahmins and Chitpavan Brahmins. Outside of India, the surname Pai can also be found in countries with a significant Indian diaspora population, such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It is often retained by individuals of Indian descent to maintain a connection to their cultural heritage. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Pai signifies its Indian origins and the migration of Indian communities to various parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pai

The last name Pai can be spelled and have variations such as Pai, Pae, Pie, Pye, Paey, and Paei. These variations may stem from different language origins or spelling preferences. The name Pai is of Chinese origin and is commonly found in regions with Chinese populations. The variations in spelling may be influenced by dialects or regional pronunciations. In some cases, the last name Pai may also be anglicized to Paige or Paine. Despite the different spellings, all variations of the last name Pai still retain its original meaning and significance. Overall, the variations and spellings of the last name Pai showcase the diversity and evolution of surnames across different cultures and regions.

Famous people with the last name Pai

One notable individual with the last name Pai is Vishwanath Pratap Singh Pai, an Indian mathematician known for his contributions to the field of number theory. Another prominent figure with the surname Pai is P. V. Narasimha Rao, the ninth Prime Minister of India who served from 1991 to 1996. Additionally, Anant Pai, often referred to as Uncle Pai, was an Indian educationalist and creator of the popular comic book series Amar Chitra Katha. These individuals have helped shape various fields, from mathematics to politics and education, leaving a lasting impact on Indian society and beyond. The Pai surname has been associated with individuals who have excelled in their respective fields and have made significant contributions to their communities.

Genealogical research on the last name Pai

The surname Pai is of Chinese origin and is commonly found among the Hakka people. The name is believed to have originated from the name of the Pai Yao tribe in ancient China. The Pai family name has been passed down through generations and can be traced back to various regions in China. Many individuals with the last name Pai have migrated to different parts of the world, such as Taiwan, Malaysia, India, and the United States. Genealogical research on the Pai surname may uncover connections to prominent figures in Chinese history as well as provide insight into the cultural heritage and traditions of the Pai family. The study of the Pai lineage can offer a deeper understanding of the roots and historical significance of this unique surname.

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 : 7 June 2025

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