Dictionary of Family Names in the Visegrad Countries

KOWALSKI

Description available in the following languages:
Originof Polish origin
TypeFamily name referring to the place of residence, origin or estate
Family name referring to an occupation, activity or social status
Family name referring to the connection with the father or another ancestor by that name

Description

The name is derived from such Polish place names (settlement names) as Kowal or Kowale with the suffix -ski, or Kowalskie with the suffix -i, and refers to a place of residence, origin or estate. It may also be derived from the Polish common noun kowal meaning ‘smith' with the suffix -ski and refer to an occupation. Alternatively, it may also be derived from the Polish personal name Kowal with the suffix -ski and refer to the connection with the father or another ancestor by that name.