They reveal a lot about the origins, customs, places of birth and even professions of ancestors
Have you ever wondered why so many Brazilians share the same surnames?
For know that this coincidence has very interesting historical and cultural explanations.
From colonization to this day, the surnames have passed from generation to generation, carrying deep meanings.
Understanding where the most popular family names in the country come from is also a way of connecting with their own identity.
Surnames are more than just a formality in documents.
They reveal a lot about our origins, customs, places of birth and even ancestor professions.
6 most common surnames in Brazil and its origins
1. Silva
For starters, the surname Silva is undoubtedly the most common among Brazilians. Its origin is in the Latin “Silva”, which means forest or jungle.
In the Middle Ages, it was used to identify people who lived near areas with many trees. Over time, the name was widely used by Portuguese families.
When the Portuguese arrived in Brazil, they brought this surname, which spread quickly.
In addition, during the colonial period, many enslaved ones received the name Silva, which also contributed to their wide distribution.
2. Santos
Another very common surname in Brazil is Santos. He has a strong connection with the Catholic religion.
Derived from the Latin “Sanctus”, which means Saint, the name was traditionally given to people born on all saints, celebrated on November 1st.
Over time, it was also used to honor protectors from families or cities.
For this reason, the surname has become popular in various regions of Brazil, especially in the Northeast and Southeast.
3. Oliveira
The surname Oliveira has geographical origin and is related to the olive tree.
In practice, it was used by people who lived in areas with olive plantations or who worked with the cultivation of olives.
This name has Portuguese roots and arrived in Brazil with the colonizers.
Over time, he was spreading and fixing himself as one of the most present surnames in the country. In addition, the olive tree is a symbol of peace and prosperity, which makes the name even more special.
4. Souza
Very popular too, the surname Souza – which often appears with the spelling Sousa – originates in the Latin “Saxa”, which means stone or rock.
Originally, it was used to identify families living in rocky regions.
Like the other names on this list, it was brought by Portuguese during colonization and soon gained strength in the Brazilian territory.
It is currently one of the most common surnames in the country’s civil records.
5. Rodrigues
The surname Rodrigues is an example of patronymic name, that is, derives from the name of an ancestor.
In this case, it means “son of Rodrigo”. This was a common way to indicate a person’s lineage, especially in ancient times.
With the expansion of Iberian families, Rodrigues became a frequent name in Portugal and Spain.
When Europeans came to Brazil, they brought with it this last name, which remains today as one of the most popular.
6. Ferreira
Finally, we have the surname Ferreira. It comes from the Latin “Ferraria”, which means a place where you work with iron.
That is, it is a surname of occupational origin, used by families who had blacksmiths among their members.
For many centuries, this name identified professionals who worked with metal, especially iron, which was very valuable at the time.
Over time, Ferreira is no longer just a sign of a profession and became one of the most traditional surnames in Brazil.
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