History and Significance of the Surname Bowls

The Origins of the Surname Bowls

The surname Bowls is believed to have originated from the Old English word "bolla," which means a rounded vessel or container. This suggests that the surname may have originally been occupational, referring to someone who made or sold bowls. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname for someone with a round or bowl-like head shape. The surname Bowls is relatively rare, with the highest incidence in the United States, followed by England, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa.

United States

In the United States, the surname Bowls is most commonly found in the southern states, particularly in states like Texas, Georgia, and Florida. It is believed that the surname was brought to the United States by early British settlers and may have been anglicized over time. The incidence of the surname Bowls in the United States is relatively high compared to other countries, with 293 individuals bearing the surname according to the data.

England

In England, the surname Bowls is found mainly in the southern counties, such as Kent, Sussex, and Hampshire. The surname is thought to be of Anglo-Saxon origin and may have been derived from a place name or a topographical feature. The incidence of the surname Bowls in England is relatively low compared to the United States, with only 11 individuals bearing the surname according to the data.

Canada

In Canada, the surname Bowls is most commonly found in the eastern provinces, such as Ontario and Quebec. It is believed that the surname was brought to Canada by early British and French settlers and may have been anglicized or francisized over time. The incidence of the surname Bowls in Canada is relatively low, with only 10 individuals bearing the surname according to the data.

New Zealand and Australia

In New Zealand and Australia, the surname Bowls is relatively rare compared to other English-speaking countries. It is found mainly in the larger cities, such as Auckland and Sydney, and may have been brought to these countries by British immigrants during the colonial era. The incidence of the surname Bowls in both New Zealand and Australia is relatively low, with only 10 individuals bearing the surname in each country according to the data.

South Africa

In South Africa, the surname Bowls is most commonly found in the Cape Province and the Natal region. It is believed that the surname was brought to South Africa by early British settlers and may have been anglicized over time. The incidence of the surname Bowls in South Africa is relatively low, with only 5 individuals bearing the surname according to the data.

Other Countries

Outside of the English-speaking world, the surname Bowls is found in countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Argentina, Barbados, Brazil, China, Germany, France, Scotland, Malaysia, and Namibia. The incidence of the surname Bowls in these countries is very low, with only 1 individual bearing the surname in each country according to the data. It is possible that the surname Bowls was brought to these countries by British expatriates or through other means.