NomOrigine Background

Last Name Papas

What is the origin of the last name Papas?

The surname "Papas" is of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "pappas," which means "priest" or "father." In Greek culture, the term "papas" is used to address a priest in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Therefore, the surname "Papas" likely originated as a patronymic surname given to the descendants of a priest or a respected religious figure in Greek society.

origin of the last name Papas

Learn more about the origin of the last name Papas

The meaning and origin of the last name Papas

Papas is a Greek surname that means "father" or "pope" in the Greek language. The name is derived from the Greek word "pappas" which originally referred to a priest or an elder in the Christian church. The surname Papas is commonly found in Greece and among Greek diaspora communities around the world. The name may have been taken on as a surname based on an ancestor's occupation as a priest or leader in the church. Another possible origin of the surname Papas is from the term "papadopoulos," which means "son of the pope" in Greek. This could indicate a familial connection to a religious leader or a prominent figure in the church. Overall, the surname Papas carries a strong religious connotation and is reflective of the Greek Orthodox faith.

Geographical distribution of the last name Papas

The last name Papas is primarily found in Greece, with a significant concentration in the southern region of Peloponnese. The name originates from the Greek word for father and is a common surname in the country. It is also found in other Greek-speaking communities around the world, particularly in areas where Greek immigrants have settled, such as the United States, Australia, and Canada. Due to its Greek origins, the name Papas is most commonly found in regions with a strong Greek cultural influence. In modern times, the name has spread beyond Greece and is now found in various countries across the globe, reflecting the diaspora of people with Greek heritage. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Papas is indicative of the strong ties and connections that the Greek community shares worldwide.

Variants and spellings of the last name Papas

The last name Papas can be spelled and seen in various ways, including Papaz, Papass, Papazis, Papassos, Papatz, and Papathiou. Other variations and spellings may include Pappas, Papatheodorou, Papatheodoulou, and Pappathopoulos. These variations often reflect different regional or cultural influences, such as Greek, Cypriot, or even Italian origins. Despite the differences in spelling and pronunciation, these variations all ultimately trace back to the same root name – Papas. Whether spelled with a single or double "p," or with additional suffixes and prefixes, the name Papas remains a common surname in various parts of the world and holds significance within families and communities who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Papas

One famous individual with the last name Papas is Irene Papas, a Greek actress and singer known for her performances in both Greek and international films. She has appeared in over 70 films throughout her career and has received numerous awards for her acting abilities. Another notable figure with the last name Papas is Andreas Papas, a former professional basketball player who competed in the Greek basketball league and represented the Greek national team in international competitions. Both Irene and Andreas Papas have achieved success in their respective fields, with Irene making a name for herself in the world of cinema and Andreas excelling on the basketball court.

Genealogical research on the last name Papas

The last name Papas is of Greek origin and is a surname derived from the Greek word for "father." It is a patronymic surname, indicating descent from a father or ancestor with the first name "Papas." Genealogical research on the Papas surname reveals a long history of families tracing back to their Greek roots. Common variations of the surname include Papadopoulos, Papageorgiou, and Papadakis. Individuals with the last name Papas can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in Greece and other countries with a significant Greek diaspora. Through the study of birth, marriage, and death records, as well as census data and other historical documents, researchers can uncover the familial connections and ancestral lines of those with the Papas surname, shedding light on their genealogical heritage.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: