History and Significance of the Surname Bartolić

Introduction

The surname Bartolić is a fascinating name with a rich history and cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the origins and prevalence of the surname Bartolić in various countries, as well as the different spellings and variations of this unique surname. We will delve into the etymology of the name and its possible meanings, providing a comprehensive overview of the Bartolić surname.

Origins and Meaning

The surname Bartolić is of Slavic origin, with its roots in the Croatian and Serbian languages. The name is derived from the personal given name Bartol, which is a variant of the name Bartholomew. Bartol is a diminutive form of Bartholomew, a popular given name in Christian societies. The suffix -ić in Bartolić is a common patronymic suffix in Slavic languages, meaning "son of" or "descendant of." Therefore, Bartolić can be translated as "son of Bartol" or "descendant of Bartol."

It is worth noting that surnames in Eastern European countries often have patronymic origins, reflecting the father's first name or occupation. In the case of Bartolić, the surname indicates descent from an individual named Bartol or Bartholomew. This practice of deriving surnames from ancestral names is common in Slavic cultures and provides valuable insights into family lineages and heritage.

Etymology

The etymology of the surname Bartolić can be further explored by examining its linguistic components. The name Bartol is a Croatian and Serbian variation of the name Bartholomew, which is derived from the Aramaic name Bar-Talmay, meaning "son of Talmai." Bartholomew is a biblical name found in the New Testament, associated with one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.

The suffix -ić in Bartolić is a Slavic patronymic ending, commonly used to denote paternal lineage. In Croatian and Serbian, the -ić suffix signifies "son of" and is added to the father's given name. Therefore, Bartolić can be interpreted as "son of Bartol," emphasizing the familial connection and lineage of the individual carrying the surname.

Prevalence and Distribution

The surname Bartolić is most commonly found in Croatia, where it has a significant incidence rate. According to data from the Croatian Bureau of Statistics, there are 1464 individuals with the surname Bartolić in Croatia, making it a relatively common surname in the country. The prevalence of Bartolić in Croatia underscores its strong presence in the local population and highlights its historical significance within Croatian society.

International Presence

Aside from Croatia, the surname Bartolić can also be found in neighboring countries and regions. In Slovenia, there are 72 individuals with the surname Bartolić, indicating a smaller but noticeable presence of the name in the country. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, 16 individuals carry the surname Bartolić, reflecting a modest incidence of the name in the Bosnian population.

In addition, the surname Bartolić is found in Serbia, with 13 individuals bearing the name according to available records. The presence of Bartolić in Serbia suggests a cross-border migration of individuals carrying the surname between Croatia and Serbia, highlighting the interconnected nature of regional demographics and family connections.

Furthermore, there is one recorded instance of the surname Bartolić in the Czech Republic, indicating a rare but existing occurrence of the name in this Central European country. The presence of Bartolić in the Czech Republic may be linked to historical migrations or familial ties that extend across national borders.

Variations and Spellings

Like many surnames, Bartolić has various spelling variations and phonetic renderings based on regional dialects and historical influences. Some common variations of the surname Bartolić include Bartolic, Bartolich, and Bartolovich, reflecting different ways in which the name may have been transcribed or anglicized over time.

These variations in spelling can be attributed to factors such as linguistic evolution, dialectal differences, and the transliteration of names from one language to another. Despite these variations, the core meaning and origin of the surname Bartolić remain consistent, emphasizing the familial connection to the name Bartol or Bartholomew.

Migration and Adaptation

The variations and spellings of the surname Bartolić also highlight the adaptability of names across different cultures and regions. As individuals with the surname Bartolić migrated to new territories or interacted with diverse linguistic communities, the spelling and pronunciation of their surname may have evolved to suit local conventions and customs.

Over time, these adaptations and modifications contributed to the diverse array of spelling variations seen in the surname Bartolić today. Each variation reflects a unique interpretation or representation of the original name, showcasing the dynamic nature of surnames as they move across borders and generations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Bartolić is a distinctive and culturally significant name with deep roots in Slavic languages and traditions. With its origins in Croatia and its presence in neighboring countries, Bartolić stands as a testament to familial heritage and lineage. The variations and spellings of the surname underscore the dynamic nature of names as they migrate and adapt to new environments. Through exploring the prevalence, distribution, and etymology of the surname Bartolić, we gain valuable insights into the rich tapestry of Eastern European surnames and the connections they represent.