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Last Name Wos

What is the origin of the last name Wos?

The last name "Wos" is of Polish origin. It is derived from the personal name "Wojciech," which means "joyful warrior" in Polish. The surname "Wos" is found predominantly in Poland and is believed to have originated from the medieval period.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Wos

The surname Wos is of Polish and Ukrainian origin, derived from the personal name Wos or Vos, which is a shortened form of the given names Wosttek or Wostislav. The name could also be a variant of the Polish surname Woś, which comes from the word "wość," meaning "fierceness" or "aggressiveness." In some cases, Wos could also be a Jewish surname, derived from the Yiddish word for "small," suggesting a nickname for a diminutive individual. Overall, Wos is a relatively uncommon surname that can be found in various regions of Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and Ukraine.

Geographical distribution of the last name Wos

The last name Wos is most commonly found in Poland, particularly in the Silesian region. It is also present in Germany, especially in the lower Rhine region. In addition to these countries, the surname Wos can also be found in the United States, with notable concentrations in states such as Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania. The distribution of the Wos surname indicates a strong connection to Eastern European heritage, with a notable presence in areas with historically large Polish and German populations. The variations in geographical distribution suggest that the surname may have originated in Eastern Europe and spread to other regions through migration and settlement.

Variants and spellings of the last name Wos

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Famous people with the last name Wos

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Genealogical research on the last name Wos

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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 : 11 April 2025

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