BALFE
Balfe
Balfe is a surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the Irish name "Ó Bealáigh" which means 'descendant of Bealáigh'. The name is predominantly found in Ireland, particularly in Counties Cork and Clare, but has also spread to England and other parts of the British Isles.
One of the most well-known bearers of the surname Balfe is Michael William Balfe (1808-1870), a prominent Irish composer, best known for his operas. He became a highly successful musician in London and was appointed as the musical director of Her Majesty's Theatre. Balfe's works were widely acclaimed during the 19th century and he made significant contributions to the realm of opera.
The surname Balfe continues to be passed down through generations, with individuals bearing this name contributing to a variety of fields such as music, literature, and more. It remains a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the British Isles and Ireland.
Overall, the surname Balfe holds historical significance and represents a lineage of individuals who have made notable contributions to British and Irish society.
There are approximately 530 people named Balfe in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Balfe.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Maurice
- Michael
- Philip
- Richard
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Anne
- Charlotte
- Dawn
- Elizabeth
- Eva
- Gillian
- Helen
- Kathleen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.