Surname Zorbas - Meaning and Origin
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Zorbas: What does the surname Zorbas mean?
The last name Zorbas is derived from the Greek form of George, which is 'Giorgos' - this being the name of one of the most famous Greek characters, Zorba the Greek. Zorba is an iconic figure in literature, known for his free-spirited enthusiasm, joy of life, wisdom, quick wit and unconstrained joie de vivre.
The Zorbas family name was historically associated with professional ventures such as merchant trade and navigation. Its bearers were known to have a remarkable aptitude to win and cultivate business in far-off regions - traversing distant waters and shores. The Zorbas are also known to be influential members in local and international commerce.
Zorbas is an old family name that evinces a sense of pride and nostalgia - bringing to mind a romantic past, when sailing and selling goods was a way of life. Those who carry this name are inspired by the legacy of the Zorbas patriarchs, the sailor-traders of the olden days.
In modern days, Zorbas is still a popular name and its bearers are widely respected and sought out for their entrepreneurial ability. They are often seen as ideal business partners and are reputed for their strong rapport with customers. Zorbas are also known for their unique combination of modernity and tradition, often combining innovation with longstanding experience.
Order DNA origin analysisZorbas: Where does the name Zorbas come from?
The last name Zorbas is most common in Greece today. This is a common extended family surname in the country and is believed to originate from Crete. It is believed to be derived from Turkish or Venetian roots. It is shared by many families in the south and on the island of Crete.
The Zorbas family has been around Crete for many centuries and has had a wealthy presence in the country. They had a variety of properties and businesses that spanned across different parts of the island. Today, there are many Zorbas families living in both Greek mainland and Crete.
The influence of the Zorbas family in Greece is still seen in the name of local taverns and street services that have become popular in the country. Taverns such as Zorbas Cafe in Chania, Crete are still popular and serve customers with traditional Greek food and drinks. There is also the Zorbas Bakery in Ierapetra, also in Crete which serves many customers daily.
Due to its prevalence in the Greek mainland and Crete, it is safe to say the last name Zorbas is still very common and alive today.
Variations of the surname Zorbas
Zorbas is a surname of Greek origin that is also spelled as Zorba, Zorbah, Zorbai, Zorbas, and Zarvas. It is believed to have derived from the name Zorbe, the ancient Greek word meaning "ploughman". The variations are often found in families from Crete and also throughout different regions of Greece.
The origin and evolution of Zorbas is closely related to the ploughman trade of ancient Greece. This occupation was originally known as a “zorban” which was the person responsible for the cultivation of the land and ploughing of the earth. As the occupation became more popular, the name spread throughout Greece and was adopted in various regional variations such as Zorbas, Zarvas, and Zorba.
Today, variations of the Zorbas surname are found throughout the European continent with the most popular being Zorba, Zorbas, and Zarvas. In the United States, the surname is quite common and is found amongst the Greek diaspora.
Over the years, the Zorbas surname has become associated with the iconic Greek character Zorba the Greek from the 1952 novel by Nikos Kazantzakis and the 1964 film directed by Michael Cacoyannis. This connection has popularized and immortalized the name in the hearts of many Greeks around the world, cementing it in the annals of Greek culture and tradition.
Famous people with the name Zorbas
- Alanis Zorbas, Greek actress
- Antonis Zorbas, Greek actor
- Evi Zorbas, Greek television journalist
- Ioannis Zorbas, Greek swimmer
- Babis Zorbas, Greek businessman
- Avinoam Zorbas, Israeli actor
- Adam Zorbas, Greek singer
- Iakovos Zorbas, Greek wrestler
- Chris Zorbas, American record producer
- Jerry Zorbas, American football player