Surname Bava - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'B'
Bava: What does the surname Bava mean?
The surname Bava has Italian origin. It appears to be derived from 'bavo', an old Italian word meaning 'fool' or 'simpleton'. However, it is not necessarily derogatory, as it might also imply innocence or simplicity. It is also be possible, especially in regions near Venice, that bava derives from a colloquial term for 'snail', perhaps referring indirectly to someone's quiet or slow character. Moreover, it can also refer to individuals hailing from any of the several places named Bava in Italy. The surname is common in several southern parts of Italy, especially in Sicily. However, without a specific genealogical context, it's hard to determine the exact meaning of the surname for a specific individual or family. It is also essential to bear in mind that as surnames are often regionally variant and historically malleable, their meanings can be multifaceted.
Order DNA origin analysisBava: Where does the name Bava come from?
The surname Bava is originated from Italy. It is derived from an Old Italian personal name 'Bavo' or 'Bavio', which is assumed to have been frequently used in the Lombardy region, derived from the medieval Latin word 'Bavus' meaning 'stammerer'. Today, the surname Bava is scattered throughout Italy, though higher concentrations are found in the northern regions. Particularly, it is most prevalent in Piedmont, Lombardy, and Aosta Valley regions.
Another theory suggests Bava may have Jewish roots as well. This is because Bava is also the term for one of the six orders of the Jewish Mishnah and Talmud. However, the evidence for this association is less concrete.
Outside of Italy, Bava may also be a surname among people from India, particularly in the South Indian state of Kerala, where it is used to refer to elder brothers or male cousins. It is also often used in a friendly manner to refer to male friends. Despite these associations, the surname is still most common in Italy.
Variations of the surname Bava
Bava is a surname with potential origins in multiple cultures, making its variants quite diverse. In Judaism, Bava is linked to the "Bava Batra," translating to "the last gate," a section of the Jewish Talmud. Variants here could include Babba and Bova.
The surname also has a history in Italian culture. The surname Bava could also be derived from the Italian word "bavoso," which refers to someone who drools or slobbers. This might imply that the surname was at some point a nickname. In the same vein, other spellings or variations could include Bavi, Bavio, or Bara.
Further variants can be found in the Indian and Maldivian languages, where Bava signifies 'brother-in-law' or 'elder brother.' Variations could be Bhava, Bhawa, or Bahava.
In South Slavic languages, Bava or Baba often refers to an 'old woman' or 'grandmother,' so variants could be Baba or Babo.
Finally, considering the regularly occurring issues like transcription errors or intentional changes, surnames such as Baya, Vava, Baba, or Pava might also be considered as potential alternatives.
However, it's crucial to remember that surnames' origin and variations can be vast and intricate due to regional dialects, historical language changes, and personal or familial modifications.
Famous people with the name Bava
- Mario Bava: An Italian director, screenwriter, and cinematographer who is considered as one of the most influential filmmakers in the horror genre. He is often referred to as the "Master of Italian Horror".
- Lamberto Bava: Son of Mario Bava, Lamberto is an Italian film director who is best known for his work in the horror genre. He assisted his father on multiple films before directing his first film in the 1980s.
- Arjun Bava: An Indian actor known for his work in Malayalam cinema. He debuted with the film "Kudumbasametham" and has since been a part of several successful films.
- Kris Bava: An American football player who played as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears in the 1980s. He also played for the San Francisco 49ers.
- Gavi M. Bava: An Indian art director known for his work in Malayalam film industry.
- Joseph Bava: A successful Indian businessman and the founder of Bava Fabrics.
- Virginia Bava: An Argentinian politician who became an important social activist in her native country. Please note that the popularity and recognition of these personalities may vary based on geographical location and cultural awareness.