In addition to identifying our family and lineage, they are like time capsules, carrying stories, professions, locations and even physical characteristics.
Have you ever stopped to think about the importance of surnames?
In addition to identifying, they are like time capsules, carrying stories, professions, locations and even physical characteristics of our ancestors.
But despite being so common in everyday life, many of us never reflect on what they really mean.
6 surnames that many people have and have meanings that few knew about their origins
1. Silva
If you are Silva or know someone, know that it is one of the common surnames in Brazil.
But did you know that its origins are Latin?
Derives from the word silvawhich means “forest” or “grove”.
This suggests that the first to bear this name probably lived near forested areas or were associated with these landscapes.
2. Rodrigues
Rodrigues is a typical patronymic surname, that is, it comes from a given name. In this case, from “Rodrigo”.
The ending “-es” indicates descent, meaning “son of Rodrigo”.
This surname carries a strong connection with noble families from the Iberian Peninsula and is further proof of how Brazil is an incredible mix of Portuguese and Spanish influences.
3. Oliveira
Olive oil lovers or not, Oliveiras have their origins linked to the olive tree, the tree that bears olives.
This surname was used to identify people who lived near olive plantations or worked with them.
Furthermore, the olive tree also has a strong symbolism of peace and prosperity, which gives a special touch to those who carry this surname.
4. Santos
If your last name is Santos, you already have a blessing in your name!
This surname has a religious origin and was widely used to honor the saints of the Catholic Church.
Many families adopted it as a form of devotion or to mark commemorative dates.
It is one of the most traditional in Brazil and reflects the strong religious influence in the formation of the country.
5. Souza/Sousa
Did you know that Souza and Sousa are the same thing, just with different spellings?
This surname originates in Portugal, related to the Sousa River, in the northern region of the country.
Thus, people who lived close to this river adopted the name to identify themselves.
6. Costa
Finally, we have Costa, a surname that breathes the sea.
It refers to coastal regions, indicating that the first to use this name probably lived close to the coast or had activities related to the seas.
It’s no surprise that this surname is so common in a country with a coastline as long as Brazil’s!
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