Even the most common surnames have unique stories, which can surprise you with the history they carry.
Did you know that many surnames carry deep meanings, often unknown even to the people who have them?
Although they are common, these surnames can be related to, profession, or even characteristics of our ancestors.
6 surnames that many people have, but most have no meaning (Silva is one of them)
1. Silva
Silva is, without a doubt, one of the most common surnames in Brazil, but did you know that it has an interesting meaning?
Derived from Latin silvawhich means “forest” or “woods”, this surname was probably attributed to people who lived near forested areas or, in ancient times, to those who lived in wilder and more isolated regions.
It is a surname with a strong connection to nature and the environment.
2. Souza
Another very popular family name in Brazil, Souza has its origins in Latin solis (sun) and solarium (sun place).
This indicates that the surname may have been associated with brighter places, or even with open areas with good exposure to the sun.
3. Oliveira
The origin of Oliveira comes from the word olive treewhich means “he who plants olive trees” or “place where olive trees grow”.
This surname has a strong association with Mediterranean culture, which is famous for its olive trees.
4. Pereira
The surname Pereira comes from Latin pearwhich means “pear tree”, the fruit tree.
People with this surname possibly had a connection to regions where these trees grew in abundance.
A symbol of fruit, nutrition and even resistance, as the pear is a tree that resists time well.
5. Costa
If you have the surname Costa, you may not know that it is closely related to the coast.
The word costa comes from Latin costawhich means “edge” or “margin”, and was originally used to refer to coastal regions.
In other words, their ancestors may have come from seaside regions.
6. Martins
Finally, Martins has its origins in Latin Martinwhich derives from Mars, the Roman god of war.
Therefore, this surname may have been associated with people who stood out for their courage, strength or, perhaps, their warrior spirit.
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