BALL

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Ball

Origin and Meaning
The surname Ball is of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Old English word "beall" or "ball," which means a spherical object. It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was round or plump. Alternatively, it could have been a metonymic occupational name for a dancer, as the term "ball" was used to describe a formal social dance in medieval England.

Historical Significance
The surname Ball has been found in records dating back to the 12th century in England and Scotland. Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Ball have been recorded in various roles and professions, including landowners, merchants, soldiers, and craftsmen. Some notable individuals with the surname Ball include John Ball (1338-1381), an English priest and prominent figure in the Peasants' Revolt, and George Ball (1909-1994), an American diplomat who served as Under Secretary of State for Economic and Agricultural Affairs.

Distribution and Variants
The surname Ball is relatively common in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia. Variants of the surname include Balle, Balls, and Balleman. Over time, the surname has given rise to numerous variations and alternate spellings, reflecting changes in pronunciation and spelling conventions.

Famous Individuals

  • Lucille Ball: An American actress and comedian best known for her role in the television sitcom "I Love Lucy."
  • Alan Ball: A British screenwriter and director known for his work on the TV series "True Blood" and the film "American Beauty."
  • Michael Ball: A British actor, singer, and broadcaster who has appeared in musicals such as "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Les Misérables."

Modern Usage
The surname Ball continues to be prevalent in contemporary society, with individuals bearing the name involved in a wide range of professions and industries. The legacy of the surname Ball is kept alive through the descendants of those who have borne the name for generations, serving as a link to their ancestral heritage.

There are approximately 49,950 people named Ball in the UK. That makes it the 140th most common surname in Britain. Around 767 in a million people in Britain are named Ball.

Surname type: Nickname

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jennifer
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.