IPA Pronunciation

ˈbæl.fɔːr

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Syllables

The name Balfour originates from Old English and Scottish roots, combining 'bal' meaning 'farm' or 'town' and 'fawr' meaning 'large' or 'beautiful'. Historically, it referred to a place name describing a 'beautiful large pasture' or farmstead. The name has been borne by notable Scottish families and has strong aristocratic and political associations from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Cultural Significance of Balfour

Balfour holds a distinguished place in Scottish and British history, primarily due to the Balfour family, a noble lineage with significant political influence. The name is often associated with leadership, diplomacy, and aristocracy, exemplified by figures like Arthur Balfour, a British Prime Minister. Its roots in pastoral imagery also reflect Scotland’s agrarian heritage, symbolizing stability and natural beauty.

Balfour Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Balfour is a rare but distinguished choice for parents seeking a name with historical gravitas and a Scottish flair. It is uncommon in modern naming charts, making it unique yet accessible. The name appeals to those interested in heritage names with a strong, masculine sound, often favored by families with ties to British or Scottish culture or those who appreciate vintage aristocratic names.

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Popular Nicknames12

BalBalfyFouryBalfBalfoB-FourAlfBooBalfieBFourBalster
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International Variations11

BalfourBalfarBalfurBalfarhBalfaurBalfhoreBalfawerBalfroBalfaurhBalforBalfourr

Similar Names You Might Love4

Name Energy & Essence

The name Balfour carries the essence of “From the town of Balfour, meaning 'beautiful pasture'.” from Scottish tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

Balfour holds a distinguished place in Scottish and British history, primarily due to the Balfour family, a noble lineage with significant political influence. The name is often associated with leadership, diplomacy, and aristocracy, exemplified by figures like Arthur Balfour, a British Prime Minister. Its roots in pastoral imagery also reflect Scotland’s agrarian heritage, symbolizing stability and natural beauty.

Arthur James Balfour

British Prime Minister (1902–1905) and author of the Balfour Declaration, influential in British and world politics.

Eustace Balfour

Scottish architect and soldier, younger brother of Arthur Balfour, known for his work on London housing estates.

Gerald Balfour

British Conservative politician and brother of Arthur Balfour, served as President of the Board of Trade.

Balfour

🌐Spanish

Balfour

🌐French

Balfour

🌐German

Balfour

🌐Italian

バルフォア (Barufoa)

🌐Japanese

巴尔福尔 (Bā'ěrfú'ěr)

🌐Chinese

بالفور

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Balfour

The name Balfour is famously linked to the Balfour Declaration of 1917, a pivotal document in British history concerning the establishment of a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine.

Personality Traits for Balfour

Individuals named Balfour are often perceived as strong-willed, intelligent, and poised. They carry a natural air of leadership and sophistication, reflecting the name’s noble origins. Balfours tend to be thoughtful and principled, valuing tradition while also embracing modern ideas. Their personality might blend a rugged, grounded nature with refined social grace.

What does the name Balfour mean?

Balfour is a Scottish name meaning “From the town of Balfour, meaning 'beautiful pasture'.”. The name Balfour originates from Old English and Scottish roots, combining 'bal' meaning 'farm' or 'town' and 'fawr' meaning 'large' or 'beautiful'. Historically, it referred to a place name describing a 'beautiful large pasture' or farmstead. The name has been borne by notable Scottish families and has strong aristocratic and political associations from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

How do you pronounce Balfour?

Balfour is pronounced (IPA: ˈbæl.fɔːr). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Balfour?

Popular nicknames for Balfour include: Bal, Balfy, Foury, Balf, Balfo, B-Four, Alf, Boo, Balfie, B, Four, Balster.

Who are famous people named Balfour?

Famous people named Balfour include: , , , Arthur Balfour, Roderick Balfour.

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Balfour is a beautiful Scottish name meaning “From the town of Balfour, meaning 'beautiful pasture'.”. The name Balfour originates from Old English and Scottish roots, combining 'bal' meaning 'farm' or 'town' and 'fawr' meaning 'large' or 'beautiful'. Historically, it referred to a place name describin...

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