Surname Bowler - Meaning and Origin

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B. Bowler

Bowler: What does the surname Bowler mean?

The surname Bowler has an English origin and is derived from an occupation. It initially pertained to a person who made bowls and other similar utensils. The name is derived from the Old English term “bowlere,” which translates to "maker of bowls". The term ‘bowl’ comes from the Old English ‘bolla’ meaning ‘pot, cup or bowl’ and ‘bowlere’ is a derivative of this. Over time, it became a surname passed down through generations.

Notably, due to regional dialects and the illiteracy of many during the time when surnames began to be used, the spelling often varied greatly. Therefore, many variations of the name Bowler exist, including Boler, Bowller, and Bollar, among others. It's also important to note that the name does not have any implied relation to the popular sport of bowling, as it predates the sport's invention. The name does not suggest that an ancestor was necessarily a bowler, just as an ancestor with the surname Smith would not necessarily have been a blacksmith.

Bowler: Where does the name Bowler come from?

The surname Bowler is of English origin and dates back to the medieval period. The term 'Bowler' was occupational, derived from the Old English pre 7th Century 'bogelere', meaning a maker of bowls. It was used mainly for someone who did wood-turning, particularly making bowls, ladles, and other utensils. Some believe that the name could also have been topographic for someone who lived by a bowl-like depression.

It has slightly different versions in some countries. For example, in Germany, it can be Bauer; in Sweden, Bolle; and in Denmark, Boller.

Today, people with the last name Bowler are most common in England, with substantial occurrences in the United States and Australia as well. It may also be found, but less frequently, in Canada and New Zealand. The name has been spread across the world by the massive migration from Europe during the 19th and 20th centuries, and because of Britain's colonial history. It is more rare in non-English speaking countries due to language differences.

Variations of the surname Bowler

The surname Bowler primarily originated in England and Ireland. It is believed to have derived from the Old English word "bolla," meaning "bowl," and suggesting that the original bearers of the surname may have been bowl makers.

Different spellings that have been found for the surname Bowler include Bowler, Bowlar, Bowllar, Boler, Bouler, Booler, and Ballet. In Ireland, the name was often rendered into Gaelic as Bollaighre or Bollaí. Some ancestors of the family also anglicized the surname to Boulder.

It's also worth noting that in some instances, the surname can also be locational, having originated from a place name such as Bowler's Town or Bowler's Green. Different spelling variations for these instances might include such versions as Bolton or Boulton. Variants like Bollar or Bolleur may indicate a French origin of the name.

As far as surnames of similar origins go, names such as Bowles, Bowlby, Bould, and Bolt also come from Old English with a similar meaning or etymology. Similarly, the surname Turner could be considered of similar origin given its connection to a specific trade or craft.

Famous people with the name Bowler

• David Bowler: An English football manager and former professional player.
• Richard Bowler: An American football player.
• John Bowler: An English actor, best known for his long-running role in "The Bill."
• Rob Bowler: A British TV and film producer.
• Egan Bowler: A former Major League Baseball player.
• Brad Bowler: A former American football player.
• Sue Bowler: An Independent member of the Victorian Legislative Council.
• Thomas William Bowler: An English artist known for his illustrations and watercolors of South Africa.
• Bruce Bowler: A British film editor.
• Tom Bowler: An English cricketer.
• Trevor Bowler: A former English cricketer.
• Heather Bowler: A communications director for Eurosport.
• Beverly Bowler: An American judge in Alaska.
• Patrick Bowler: A pioneering figure in the British aesthetic medical industry.
• Alfred Bowler: A professional English cricketer.
• Bobby Bowler: An American singer and member of the band Ratt.
• Renate Bowler: An Austrian television actress.
• Betty Bowler: An Australian lawn bowler.
• Cathy Bowler: An Australian professional golfer.
• Dennis Bowler: A former English cricketer.

Other surnames

Bowles