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Last Name Zawada

What is the origin of the last name Zawada?

The last name "Zawada" has its origin in Poland. It is a Polish surname derived from the noun "zawada," which translates to "obstacle" or "hindrance" in English. The name was likely given to someone who lived near or owned land that had obstacles or barriers, such as rough terrain or dense forests. Over time, it became a hereditary surname and has been passed down in Polish families for generations.

origin of the last name Zawada

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Zawada

The meaning and origin of the last name Zawada

The surname Zawada is of Polish origin and carries a deep historical meaning. Derived from the Polish word "zawada," which translates to "obstacle" or "barrier," the surname likely originated in a geographic context. In medieval times, the term "zawada" referred to a defensive fortification or an artificial barrier constructed to protect settlements. It is probable that families adopting the name Zawada either resided near a specific location characterized by a defensive structure or were involved in its construction. Over time, the surname Zawada became hereditary, passed down through generations, and expanded to encompass individuals unrelated to the original geographical context. Today, individuals with the surname Zawada can be found across different parts of the world, mainly among Polish communities, signifying hereditary ties to a historical fortification and a lineage rooted in strength, resilience, and protection.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zawada

The last name Zawada is predominantly found in Poland, as it is of Polish origin. Within Poland, Zawada is a fairly common surname and can be found in various regions across the country. It is particularly prevalent in the southern part of Poland, including the Małopolska and Silesia regions. These regions have a historically significant population of ethnic Poles, which has likely contributed to the high occurrence of the Zawada surname in this area. Additionally, there may be pockets of individuals with the last name Zawada in other countries with historical ties to Poland or significant Polish diaspora communities. However, the overall geographical distribution of the Zawada surname beyond Poland is likely limited, with its greatest concentration remaining within the borders of Poland itself.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zawada

The last name Zawada can vary in its spellings and variations. Some common variations of this last name include Zavada, Zavhada, Zavhara, Zawahra, Zavidov, Zavadiya, Zavara, and Zavahara. These variations might be influenced by historical, regional, or linguistic factors. It is common for surnames to undergo spelling changes over time due to migration, language adaptations, or clerical errors in official records. The name Zawada itself is of Polish origin and is derived from the word "zawada," meaning "obstacle" or "hindrance." It is possible that some variations arose due to phonetic or transliteration differences when individuals migrated to different countries or regions. However, regardless of its spelling or variation, the name Zawada holds a unique significance and represents a particular family lineage.

Famous people with the last name Zawada

There are not many widely recognized famous individuals with the last name Zawada. One notable person with this surname is Andrzej Zawada, a distinguished Polish mountaineer and climbing leader. Zawada is highly regarded for his important contributions to the field of Himalayan mountaineering. He successfully led numerous important expeditions, including the Polish winter ascent of Mount Everest in 1980, which marked a significant achievement in mountaineering history. His strategic planning, leadership skills, and dedication to the sport earned him respect and admiration from the climbing community worldwide. Although Andrzej Zawada passed away in 2000, his legacy continues to inspire aspiring mountaineers and adventurers to push their limits and explore the world's highest peaks.

Genealogical research on the last name Zawada

The surname Zawada is of Polish origin and typically found in Poland and neighboring countries. The name is derived from the Polish word "zawada," which means "obstacle" or "hindrance." Genealogical research on the Zawada family reveals a rich history that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. The earliest known mention of the surname dates back to the 14th century, during the reign of King Casimir III of Poland. The Zawada family was primarily associated with the nobility, and their ancestral lands were often located in southeastern Poland. Throughout the centuries, members of the Zawada family held various positions of importance in society, serving as military officers, landowners, and educated professionals. In modern times, individuals with the Zawada surname can be found not only in Poland but also in other parts of the world, primarily due to migration. Today, researching the Zawada family history involves delving into historical archives, analyzing birth, marriage, and death records, and tracing familial connections through ancestral documents and sources.

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