Stolarz is a Polish occupational surname. Derived from the Polish word stolarz, meaning “joiner” or “maker of furniture,” it originally referred to a craftsman who worked with wood, particularly a joiner or cabinetmaker. In English approximations, the term stolarz is sometimes translated as “carpenter,” though the Polish carpenter is more specifically a cieśla—the distinction being that a stolarz builds furniture, while a cieśla works on the framework of wooden structures. Etymology The root of the word stolarz is the Polish noun stół (“table”), combined with the occupational suffix -arz (meaning “one who does or makes”). Literally, stolarz means “table-maker,” although the role expanded to encompass all joinery and fine woodworking. Notable Bearers Several individuals have carried the surname Stolarz (or its variant Stolorz) in various fields: Anthony Stolarz (born 1994), an American professional ice hockey goaltender who has played in the NHL. Laurie Faria Stolarz, an American author known for young adult fiction, including the Touch and Blue is for Nightmares series. Michał Stolarz, a Polish football midfielder. Justyna Stolarz, a Polish costume designer who has received several film awards, including the Polish Academy Award for Best Costume Design. Bruno Stolorz (born 1955), a German rugby coach. Matthew Stolarz, a musician from the band The Active Set. Cultural Significance Surnames derived from occupations are very common in Polish onomastics. The name Stolarz reflects the importance of woodworking as a craft in Polish history, particularly in rural communities where self-sufficiency in furniture making was valued. Variant spellings include Stolorz, which arose due to regional or dialectal differences in pronunciation.