Last Name Paulos

Learn more about the origin of the last name Paulos

The meaning and origin of the last name Paulos

The surname Paulos is derived from the Greek name "Paulus," meaning "small" or "humble." It has biblical origins and gained popularity due to Saint Paul, a prominent figure in early Christianity. Saint Paul, also known as the Apostle Paul, played a significant role in spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ and establishing numerous Christian communities in the first century AD. As a result, the name Paulus became common in regions influenced by Christianity, particularly across Europe and the Mediterranean. Over time, the name likely underwent different regional adaptations and phonetic changes, eventually giving rise to various surname forms, including Paulos, Paula, Pauli, Pavlo, and others. Today, the surname Paulos is commonly found among individuals with Greek, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian heritage, reflecting the historical prevalence of the name in these cultures.

Geographical distribution of the last name Paulos

The last name Paulos has a diverse geographical distribution across the world. It is commonly found in countries with Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, and Greek influences. In Portugal, the name Paulos is more prevalent in the northern regions, particularly in Porto and Braga. In Spain, it is commonly found in the regions of Galicia, Basque Country, and Catalonia. The name also has a significant presence in Italy, particularly in the southern regions such as Sicily and Calabria. In Greece, the name Paulos is more commonly found in regions like Athens and Thessaloniki. Additionally, there are also people with the last name Paulos who have migrated to various parts of the world, including the United States, Australia, and Brazil, further expanding its geographical distribution. Overall, the last name Paulos can be found in different regions across Europe and other continents due to historical migration and cultural influences.

Variants and spellings of the last name Paulos

The last name Paulos has a few variations and spellings that can be found across different regions. One common variation is Poulos, which can be seen particularly among people of Greek origin. Other possible variations include Paulo, Paolos, Paulus, and Pauwels. These variations might be influenced by different regions and languages. For instance, Pauwels is a Flemish/Dutch variant, while Paulo is a Portuguese version of the name. Spellings might also differ depending on the transliteration from other languages. In some cases, the "s" in Paulos might be replaced with a "z" in certain Central and Eastern European regions, resulting in Pauloz or Paulozs. It is worth noting that these variations and spellings occur due to various historical, cultural, and linguistic factors, emphasizing the diverse origins and migration patterns of individuals with the last name Paulos.

Famous people with the last name Paulos

There are several famous individuals with the last name Paulos who have made notable contributions in various fields. John Allen Paulos is an American mathematician and author known for his expertise in mathematical literacy and his book "Innumeracy." He has provided valuable insights into the understanding and appreciation of mathematics among the general public. Another notable figure is Abdi Paulos, an Ethiopian long-distance runner who has achieved great success in international competitions, winning multiple gold medals in events like the IAAF World Cross Country Championships. Additionally, Clement Alexander Paulos was a famous Eritrean politician and diplomat, serving as the country's Foreign Minister from 1993 to 1997. Paulos has actively contributed to the development and diplomacy of Eritrea. These individuals have all made significant contributions in their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on their communities and the world.

Genealogical research on the last name Paulos

The surname "Paulos" has its origins in Greek and carries a rich and diverse genealogical history. The name is derived from the biblical name "Paul," which means "small" or "humble." Patronymic naming practices were common in Greece, so "Paulos" indicates a familial association with someone named Paul. The surname can be found across various regions, such as Greece, Cyprus, and the Greek diaspora in different parts of the world. Genealogical research on the Paulos surname reveals numerous branches and family lines, each with its unique narrative and ancestral roots. Some Paulos families may have originated from specific Greek regions, while others could trace their heritage back to individuals who migrated to different countries. Exploring the history of the Paulos name involves delving into records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, as well as church registers, census data, immigration records, and oral history.