Paszkiewicz is a Polish-language surname that signifies its origin from the East Slav personal name "Pavel" (Paul), through its diminutive form "Pashka," and subsequent Belarusian influence.
Etymological Breakdown of Paszkiewicz
The surname Paszkiewicz provides a fascinating glimpse into linguistic and historical connections between Polish and East Slavic cultures. Its meaning is rooted in a progression of name forms:
- Polish Origin: Paszkiewicz is recognized as a surname of Polish origin.
- Belarusian Predecessor: It directly originates from the Belarusian surname Paskevich.
- Ancient Slavic Root: The ultimate source is the East Slav personal name Pashka, which is a diminutive form of Pavel (the Slavic equivalent of "Paul").
- Linguistic Influence: The suffix "-kiewicz" within the surname is a key indicator of Belarusian language influence.
This naming convention, particularly with the "-kiewicz" ending, began to emerge and become common during the 16th and 17th centuries, reflecting historical interactions and shared linguistic heritage in the region.
Surname Evolution at a Glance
To better understand the layers of meaning and origin, consider the etymological journey:
| Component | Origin/Significance |
|---|---|
| Paszkiewicz | A Polish-language surname. |
| Paskevich | The Belarusian surname from which Paszkiewicz originates. |
| Pashka | An East Slav personal name, a diminutive of Pavel (Paul). |
| Pavel (Paul) | The ultimate root name, meaning "small" or "humble." |
| -kiewicz ending | A suffix indicating Belarusian language influence. |
Therefore, Paszkiewicz essentially means "son of Pashka" or "descendant of Paul," with a clear mark of its historical journey through Belarusian linguistic patterns.
For further information on the surname, you can consult its entry on Wikipedia.
