Unique and varied last names or surnames that come from the stunning country of South America.
Brazilian surnames primarily come from Portugal and Spain. During the 16th century, Portuguese settlers formed colonies in Brazil, leading to the blending of native cultures. This resulted in Portuguese becoming the dominant language in Brazil and the adoption of Portuguese customs and names. As a result, many Brazilian surnames have their origins in Portugal and Spain. Surprisingly, some Portuguese surnames are more popular in Brazil than they are in Portugal. This post provides a list of common Brazilian last names or surnames along with their meanings and where they originated.
Top Common Brazilian Last Names Or Surnames With Meanings
1. Aldo
The last name Aldo comes from an ancient German background and means ‘the elder one’ or ‘noble.’ It is pronounced as aal-doh. Jose Aldo, a skilled martial artist from Brazil, is well-known in the United States.
2. Almeida
Almeida is a popular last name in Portuguese-speaking nations, especially in Brazil. This surname originated from a place called Almeidain in Portugal.
3. Alonso
Alonso is a Portuguese version of the German surname Adalfuns, often found in Brazil. The name means ‘noble.’ Xabi Alonso used to be a soccer player for Spain.
4. Alvares
It is a last name that comes from the father’s first name. The surname translates to ‘Son of Alvaro.’ Alvaro is a traditional name that can be found frequently in Spanish and Portuguese history. Nowadays, this last name is well-liked in Brazil and other nations in South America. Canelo Alvarez, a famous boxer, carries this surname and is currently one of the most accomplished athletes in the world.
5. Andrade
The Andrade family was a well-known family during the late Middle Ages. They were vassals in Galician regions and their name became popular in Portugal, Spain, and later in South America. The name Andrade comes from the Latin word ‘Andreas,’ which means ‘warrior.’
6. Andre
Andre comes from the Greek name Andreas, which means ‘warrior.’ It is a common first and last name in French and Portuguese cultures worldwide. Soraia Andre is a well-respected female judo athlete from Brazil.
7. Aparecido
Aparecido is a common last name in Brazil, especially in Sao Paulo. It has Portuguese roots like many other Brazilian last names. The name comes from the Latin word ‘appareo’ which means ‘to appear’ or ‘to manifest.’ César Aparecido is a former soccer player from Brazil.
8. Arantes
Abrantes is a big town in the east of Portugal, and it is believed to be where the last name Arantes comes from. The famous Brazilian soccer player Pelé’s birth name is Edson Arantes.
9. Barbosa
The last name Barbosa is derived from the Barba plant, which is plentiful in the Galician region of Portugal. It was common in early Portuguese cultures to use names of plants and trees as surnames, which is how Barbosa became popular. Domingos Barbosa, a poet and musician from Brazil in the 18th century, used the name Lareno as a pseudonym.
10. Batista
Batista, also spelled as Baptista, is a popular last name in Portugal and Spain that means ‘Baptist.’ It was first used by the clergy and later brought to Brazil by missionaries. Eike Batista is a successful entrepreneur with German roots who is from Brazil.
11. Benites
Benites is derived from the Latin last name Benedictus, which means ‘blessed.’ This name is common in Spain, Portugal, and countries in South America. Rafael Benites is a soccer coach from Spain.
12. Bento
Bento comes from Latin and is connected to the name Benedito. The Portuguese last name means ‘blessed.’ Rui Bento is a retired Portuguese soccer player who competed in the country’s league.
13. Bernardo
Bernardo is derived from the Greek surname Bernardakis, meaning ‘brave bear.’ It was adopted by the Portuguese during the Middle Ages and eventually made its way to Brazil. The surname is also frequently seen in the Philippines. Kathryn Bernardo, a well-known actress and singer, shares the same last name.
14. Bezerra
The last name Bezerra has its roots in Hebrew culture and was well-liked by Jewish immigrants who settled in Spain and Portugal. Bezerra means ‘a young female calf.’ Today, individuals with the Bezerra last name can be predominantly found in Brazil and Angola. One famous person with the surname Bezerra is Eliana, a well-known singer and actress in Brazil.
15. Borges
Borges was especially skilled in blending genres and playing with time, space, and reality in his works. His writing often explores complex philosophical ideas and metaphysical themes, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest literary minds of the 20th century. The last name Borges originally meant ‘of the town’ and eventually became known as ‘bourgeois.’ It was often used to describe well-off families who worked in office jobs. This surname is connected to the renowned Spanish writer Luis Borges.
16. Bosco
The last name Bosco comes from Latin-Italian roots and translates to ‘shrubs.’ It is a surname given to people who live or work in forest areas as woodcutters. The surname is common among Portuguese settlers in South America and the Philippines. It is also linked to the well-known priest Don Bosco from Italy, who devoted himself to educating young people globally.
17. Bruno
The last name Bruno comes from Portugal and Italy and means ‘brown.’ It was originally used as a nickname for people with brown eyes or hair. Bruno is a popular first name and the surname is most common in Italy, Brazil, and Argentina.
18. Bueno
Bueno comes from Hebrew and means ‘good.’ It is a popular last name in Spanish and Portuguese speaking countries around the globe. Maria Bueno, from Brazil, was a successful tennis player who won 19 Grand Slam titles and is the only woman from South America to win Wimbledon.
19. Caetano
Caetano has Italian roots but was later embraced by the Portuguese. The Latin translation of the name means ‘from Caieta,’ which is now the city of Gaeta in Italy. The Portuguese began using the name in honor of St. Gaetano in the 15th century and during the colonial period. This is how the surname found its way to Brazil.
20. Caldeira
In Portuguese, Caldeira means ‘kettle’ and ‘hot bath.’ The last name was used by people who made cooking pots and worked with metal. Amir Caldeira is a well-known physicist from Brazil who is famous for his studies in quantum physics.
21. Camargo
Camargo is a small town in the northern part of Spain where this last name originated. The name became popular in Brazil through the Portuguese and Spanish inquisitions. Marina Camargo is an artist from Brazil who is famous for her original viewpoints in photography.
22. Candido
Candido is a common name used for both first names and surnames. It is popular in countries like Brazil and the Philippines. In Brazil, Candido is among the top 100 surnames in the country. Antonio Candido, a famous writer, professor, and literary critic from Brazil, is highly regarded as an expert in Portuguese literature.
23. Cardoso
Cardoso, also spelled Cordozo, is a Portuguese last name that comes from the Galician area. Bruno Cardoso is a Brazilian soccer goalie who competes in international matches in the North American soccer league.
24. Carneiro
In Portuguese dialects, Carneiro means ‘sheep’ and it was used as a last name by shepherds and sheep traders. The surname was popular in the northern mountainous areas of Portugal. Nowadays, Carneiro is mostly seen in Brazil and is the 93rd most common surname in the country.
25. Carvalho
Carvalho, also spelled as Carballo and Carbajal, is a common last name in Brazil. It comes from Portugal and means ‘oak.’ Back in the day, the Portuguese would often choose names of trees and animals as their surnames.
26. Castro
Castro is a highly regarded last name with Spanish roots that is associated with the leader Fidel Castro. The name comes from a place called Castrothe, which is also the name of several small towns in Spain. It means ‘castle’ in Latin.’
27. Cesar
Cesar is like the Portuguese version of Caesar, which is known because of the famous figure Julius Caesar. The name comes from Latin and was once a title for Roman emperors. In Greek, it means ‘the hairy one.’ In Brazil, Cesar is a common last name and sometimes spelled as Cezar. Julio Cesar used to be a pro soccer player from Brazil.
28. Cesario
The name Cesario comes from the Roman Caesar and is used as both a last name and a first name. It is common in countries with Spanish and Portuguese backgrounds, but especially in Brazil. In the past, it was even used to address kings and royalty.
29. Chaves
In old Portuguese dialects, ‘Chaves’ or ‘Chavez’ meant ‘keys.’ It used to be a surname related to people who made keys and locks. Julio Cesar Chavez, a retired Mexican boxer, is known as one of the greatest fighters in boxing history.
30. Coelho
Coelho is a Latin word meaning ‘rabbit’ and is a popular Brazilian last name of Portuguese origin. One famous individual with this surname is Paulo Coelho, author of the highly successful book ‘The Alchemist.’
31. Colares
The word Colares in Portuguese means ‘neck’ or ‘collarbone’ and is often used to refer to a necklace. The last name Colares is a variation of the Anglo-Saxon name Nicholas. Currently, the surname Colares is most common among families in Brazil and Argentina.
32. Colombo
Colombo comes from the Latin word Columbus, which means ‘dove.’ Since doves were seen as sacred symbols by Catholics, many people adopted the name as their surname. The name became popular among the Portuguese and eventually spread to Brazil and other Portuguese territories.
33. Cordeiro
The last name Cordeiro originated from the Galician area of Portugal. In Latin, Cordeiro meant ‘young sheep’ and was commonly used as a surname for sheepherders and traders. Cordeiro is also the name of a town in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
34. Correa
Correa was a term in ancient Latin that meant ‘rein’ or ‘belt,’ used to describe fastening things. It became a last name for lacemakers as an occupational title. Some believe the name has noble origins, connected to a lord named Paio Correa in the 12th century. Caroline Correa is a skilled actress from Brazil.
35. Cortes
Cortes is a version of the Spanish last name Cortez. The name originally comes from ancient French and used to mean ‘courteous.’ One well-known person with the name is Bruno Cortez, a professional soccer player from Brazil.
36. Costa
Costa comes from the Latin word for ‘coast’ and is a common surname among Italians, Portuguese, and Spanish people. It became more widespread during the colonization period, particularly in South America.
37. Cruz
In ancient Latin, Cruz meant ‘cross’ and was later used as a religious name in Portugal and Spain. The name was first found in Spain and is believed to have then spread to other areas. Other versions of the surname include Krus and Cruise. When we hear the name Cruz, we often think of the talented actress Penelope Cruz.
38. Dantas
Dantas is a common last name in Brazil and is often ranked among the top 100. The surname originated from Portugal and was used to describe people from the Antas region. Tiago Dantas is a professional soccer player from Portugal.
39. Delgado
Delgado means ‘thin’ or ‘slender’ in Portuguese. It is often used as a nickname for someone who is thin. Over 23,000 people in Brazil have this name. Carlos Delgado is a well-known baseball player from Puerto Rico.
40. Diaz
Diaz is a Spanish last name that originated from the name Diego. The name ‘Diaz’ comes from the Latin word ‘dies,’ meaning ‘days,’ and is thought to have some Jewish roots. Alex Dias Ribeiro used to be a race car driver from Brazil.
41. Domingos
Domingos is the Portuguese version of the name ‘Dominick.’ It became a surname originating from the first name ‘Domingo.’ Domingo Alzugaray was both an actor and journalist from Brazil.
42. Fagundes
The name Fagundes comes from Portugal and refers to someone who talks a lot. In Brazil, there are over 121,000 people with this name, making it very common. It is sometimes used as a last name meaning ‘son of Fagundo.’ Antonio Fagundes is a well-known actor from Brazil.
43. Felicio
Felicio is a popular name in the Sao Paulo community in Brazil. The name Felicio, of Latin origin, means ‘fortunate.’ Christano Felicio, a Brazilian professional basketball player, is a member of the Chicago Bulls team.
44. Felipe
Felipe comes from the Spanish name ‘Philip,’ which has its origins in the Greek word Philippos meaning ‘horse whisperer.’ In Brazil, both Felipe and Filipe are commonly used. The title Felipe has been used by Spanish rulers since Felipe I in the late 1400s up to the current monarch, Felipe VI.
45. Fermino
Fermino, as well as the alternate spelling Firmino, means ‘strong’ or ‘loyal’ in Portuguese. This name has Italian origins and is a patronymic name, passed down from the father’s first name.
46. Fernandes
Fernandes comes from the Portuguese and Spanish name Fernando. It is the 18th most common surname in Brazil. Baltasar Fernandes was an early Portuguese explorer who traveled to many parts of Brazil.
47. Ferreira
Ferreira is a Portuguese surname originating from the word ‘ferro’ which means iron in English. In ancient Spain and Portugal, it was common for people living near iron mines to adopt the last name Ferreira, which means ‘iron mine’ in Latin. Abigail Izquierdo Ferreira was a well-known actress, singer, and director from Brazil.
48. Figueira
In Portuguese, Figueira means ‘fig tree.’ During the 10th century, when Jewish people were being persecuted in Spain and Portugal, many of them started using this name to try to fit in with the local community. Figueira is a popular last name in Brazil, with about one person in every 6000 having it.
49. Figueiredo
The name Figueiredo is most commonly found in Brazil and in Old Portuguese it means ‘Son of Figuera.’ Figueiredo can also be translated as ‘Fig Orchard.’ A survey conducted in 2005 found that one in every 1400 people in Brazil has the surname Figueiredo.
50. Firmino
The surname Firmino means ‘strong and reliable.’ It can also be used as a first name and has different forms like Fermino, which is popular in Brazil. Roberto Firmino is a soccer player from Brazil.
51. Fonseca
The term Fonseca has been historically used to describe locations where water sources vanish in the summer. Its Latin meaning is ‘dry well,’ and it is commonly used as a surname for people living in those areas.
52. Fontana
The name Fontana is the 670th most common surname in Brazil, with one occurrence in every 11860 people. In Latin, Fontana means fountain. This surname is used for people who lived close to a spring or fountain.
53. Fortes
Fortes can have two meanings in Portuguese – ‘strong’ and ‘fortress’. It is a surname commonly used in Brazil. The name originated in the Norman kingdom and eventually became popular in western Europe and Brazil.
54. Freires
The name Freire comes from the Latin word ‘frigere,’ which means ‘to cook by frying.’ It is a name given to people who work as fryers. In Brazil, approximately one person out of every 1198 is named Freires.
55. Freitas
Freitas has roots in Portugal and Galicia. It translates to ‘broken stones.’ The name was originally given to those who lived near rocky terrain. In some cases, it was adopted by people residing in areas called Freitas.
56. Furtado
The name Furtado is more commonly used in Brazil than anywhere else. In Portuguese, Furtado means ‘stolen’ or ‘illegitimate’. Celso Furtado was a significant economist from Brazil.
57. Gabriel
The name Gabriel comes from Hebrew and is linked to the archangel in the New Testament. It is used as both a first name and a surname by religious people. Gabriel is a popular last name among Spanish and Portuguese families worldwide. Juan Gabriel, a well-known Mexican singer, had the surname Gabriel.
58. Garcia
This name is very popular in Brazil, where over 400,000 individuals have it. Luis Garcia, who used to play professional soccer in Spain, is a well-known figure.
59. Geraldo
Geraldo comes from the German name Gerhard, which means ‘strong.’ The name first appeared in the Tuscany region before spreading to Italy and Portugal. It is now most commonly found in Brazil and Angola.
60. Gimenes
Gimenes is a popular family name in Brazil, with over 42,000 individuals carrying this surname. It is believed to have its roots in Brazil, but can also be found in other countries.
61. Gomes
Gomes comes from the word ‘Guma,’ which translates to man.
62. Gonzalez
Gonzalez is a popular last name in the Hispanic community and is one of the five most common surnames in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries. The name comes from the Visigoths, an ancient German community, and originally meant ‘warrior’. As time passed, it also came to signify ‘Son of Gonzalo’, giving it a patronymic association.
63. Gouvea
The name Gouvea originated from a town in Portugal called Gouveia. Today, the name is most popular in Brazil, where over 20,000 people have it. Murilo Gouvea is a Brazilian baseball player.
64. Guerra
Guerra is a common last name in Brazil that comes from the Portuguese word for ‘war.’ It used to be a nickname for soldiers. Rogelio Guerra was a well-known actor from Mexico.
65. Guerreiro
Guerreiro is a name that comes from Portuguese and Galician roots. It means ‘warrior’ in Portuguese and was often used as a nickname for brave soldiers. David Pedrosa Guerreiro is a skilled Portuguese soccer player.
66. Guilherme
Guilherme is a Portuguese version of the English name ‘William’ and has roots in the German name ‘Wilhelm,’ which translates to ‘resolute protector.’ It is a name typically used for boys. Guilherme Berenguer is an actor who appears on Brazilian television.
67. Guimarães
Guimarães is a city in the northern part of Portugal where people adopted it as their last name. Nowadays, Guimarães is well-known in Brazil, where one out of every 684 people has the surname. Manuel Guimarães was a filmmaker from Portugal.
68. Henriques
Henriques is a usual family name that comes from Iberian roots, meaning ‘Son of Henrique.’ The English and Spanish versions are ‘Henry’ and ‘Enrique.’ In Brazil, over 29,000 people have this Portuguese surname. The first king of Portugal was Afonso Henriques.
69. Hernandes
Hernandes, like the Spanish surname Hernandez, has Hebrew roots. It became popular in the late 15th century and originally meant ‘Son of Hernan.’ While it is most common in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking South American countries, Brazil also has a significant number of Hernandes families.
70. Inacio
In Brazil, Inacio is a common Portuguese last name. It is also spelled as Ignacio and can be used as a first name. Luiz Inacio was the President of Brazil from 2003 to 2010.
71. Jacinto
Jacinto is a name in Portugal that means the flower Hyacinth. The last name was chosen to honor St. Hyacinth, a revered Roman martyr. Jacinto is not a common last name now, but there are more families with this name in Brazil than in Portugal.
72. Jesus
One of the most famous names from the Bible is Jesus, and it has been used as a family name by some followers. The Portuguese were among the first to start using it as a surname. A well-known person with this last name is Gabriel Jesus, a Brazilian soccer player who is on the Manchester City team.
73. Jorge
Jorge is the Portuguese version of the Greek name Georgios, which means ‘earth worker’ or ‘farmer.’ This name was used in Portugal starting in the early sixth century and is now commonly used as a first name.
74. Jose
Jose is a common first and last name for some people. The name comes from Hebrew and can be pronounced in Portuguese and Spanish as Joseph.
75. Lacerda
In Portuguese, ‘Lacerda’ is similar to the Spanish name ‘La cerda.’ People often give nicknames based on a person’s appearance, so it is common. The name ‘La cerda’ translates to ‘the lock of hair’ and was used as a nickname for people with a hairy back or chest.
76. Lara
Lara is a common name used as both a last name and a first name worldwide. This last name originated in Hispanic culture and means ‘from Lares,’ with Lares being the home of Gods. Brian Lara, a famous cricketer from the West Indies, is recognized for his great achievements in the sport.
77. Lemos
The name ‘Lemos’ is thought to have come from Latin and is used by Portuguese people who live in a place called ‘Lemos’ in Lugo province, Galicia. This name is commonly found in Brazil today.
78. Lima
In Latin, Lima is a metal, but in Spanish it means a place with lime trees. In Portuguese, Lima is a last name for people who lived near a river with the same name. Adriana Lima is a well-known model from Brazil.
79. Limeira
Limeira is a last name that many people have if they lived in a city called Limeira in the eastern part of Sao Paulo state in Brazil. Gabriel de Paulo Limeira is a well-known soccer player from Brazil.
80. Lucas
Lucas is a name that comes from the region of Lucania in southern Italy. It means ‘man from Lucania’ in Latin. The region of Lucania is believed to have a name that means ‘bright’ or ‘shining.’ Nick Lucas was a famous jazz guitarist and singer from America.
81. Luiz
Luiz is a variation of the name Louis in Portuguese and Spanish. In Spanish, Luiz translates to ‘famous warrior.’ The name Luiz is most popular in Brazil.
82. Lustosa
Lustosa comes from a blend of Portuguese and native Brazilian languages. The name is derived from the Latin word ‘Lusto,’ which means appealing or attractive, with the addition of the common suffix ‘osa.’ Matheus Lustosa is a well-known actor from Brazil who is popular in Mexico.
83. Macedo
The surname Macedo has origins in Galicia, specifically from a village called Macedo in the Lugo province. In Portuguese, Macedo is a name that refers to an apple grove.
84. Macena
Macena is a Portuguese last name that is not very common anymore. It originally meant ‘thanks’ and was used in a religious context to show gratitude to the Gods. Felipe de Souza Macena is a well-known soccer player from Brazil.
85. Machado
The name Machado is more common in Brazil than any other country. It means ‘an axe’ and comes from Spanish and Portuguese origins. Cristian Machado is a heavy metal singer from Brazil.
86. Madureira
Madureira comes from Portugal but is now more well-known in Brazil and Angola, former Portuguese colonies. The Madureira family name is used by over 15,000 people and is especially common in the Rio area.
87. Maia
Maia is a last name that comes from a place called ‘Maia.’ The name Maia has its roots in Portugal. Over 189,000 people in Brazil have the last name Maia. Cesar Maia, a politician in Brazil, served as mayor of Rio de Janeiro three times.
88. Marcon
Marcon is a last name originating from the Bahia region in Brazil. It comes from the German name Marco, which means ‘brave.’ The name was introduced to Brazil by Portuguese merchants and traders.
89. Maria
Maria is a Latin version of the name Mariam from the Bible. It means ‘star of the sea’ and is the feminine form of Marius. The Portuguese often used names from the New Testament as surnames, and Maria is one of those names.
90. Marinho
The Portuguese surname Marinho comes from the English word marine, which relates to the sea. It was commonly used by people living by the coast who frequently traveled on sea voyages. True to their adventurous nature, those with the Marinho name were some of the first Portuguese settlers in Brazil.
91. Marques
Marques is a last name that comes from someone being the son of Marcos in Portuguese. The addition of ‘es’ in the name indicates being the son of. In Spain, it was also used as a nickname for the workers of a Marquis. Pedro Marques is a skilled Portuguese soccer player.
92. Masvidal
Masvidal is a family name with Catalan roots, created by combining two names, ‘Mas’ and ‘Vidal.’ ‘Mas’ means a house surrounded by farmland and forests, usually away from a village.
93. Mattos
Mattos is a last name that comes from a place in Lamego, Portugal. The name ‘Matos’ is a similar version that is also popular. Andre Matos is a well-known musician from Brazil.
94. Melo
The last name Melo was taken on by the people living in the town of Merlo in Portugal. Throughout time, different generations of the Melo family built a positive reputation and acquired land throughout Portugal. Eventually, they also found success as traders, moved to Brazil, and thrived. The word Melo translates to ‘blackbird’ in Portuguese.
95. Mendes
Mendes is a last name that means ‘son of Mendo.’ It is believed to come from the Galician area, which is in both Spain and Portugal. Eva Mendes, a famous Hollywood actress, is originally from Miami, Florida.
96. Mendonca
Mendonca is a well-known last name from Portugal that comes from the Baque area in Spain. The name Mendonca is made up of ‘mendi’ which means mountains and ‘otz’ which means snow. It is a variation of the Spanish last name Mendonza and is sometimes linked to royalty.
97. Miranda
Miranda is a surname that can be found in various cultures like Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. In Latin, Miranda means ‘worthy’ or ‘admirable.’ Jose Miranda, also known as Zito, was a famous Brazilian footballer who played in the 1958 and 1962 World Cup.
98. Monte
The last name Monte is common among people from Portugal, Spain, and France. It comes from French and means ‘mountain.’ Many might recognize the name because of the popular American food and drink company Del Monte.
99. Morales
In Old Portuguese, ‘Morales’ was used to describe mulberries and blackberries. Families who grew these fruits in orchards in Galicia adopted the surname. It can also mean ‘son of Moral.’ Evo Morales used to be the president of Bolivia.
100. Moreira
In Portuguese, Moreira means ‘mulberry tree’ and in the past, there were many small villages named Moreira. Over time, people started using Moreira as a last name because they lived in these villages, making it a common surname.
101. Mota
The word ‘Mota’ in Portuguese means ‘moat,’ which was used as a stronghold long ago. Many soldiers and residents of the area adopted the surname ‘Mota.’ Agostinho Mota was a respected painter and teacher from Brazil.
102. Moura
The surname Mourais originated in a town in Portugal and became popular among the residents in the beginning. This last name based on where people lived was passed down through generations and eventually spread to other countries where Portuguese colonies were established, with Brazil being one of the most significant ones. Confucio Moura is a well-known politician in Brazil.
103. Muniz
In Portuguese, Muniz translates to ‘son of Muno.’ Carlos Muniz is a well-known baseball player globally.
104. Nascimento
The name Nascimento was originally used for babies born on Christmas Day. Its Portuguese origins come from the Latin word ‘nasci,’ which means birth, and it refers to being born on a special day. The name eventually became common as a surname in Brazil. Alexandra de Nascimento is a handball player who represents the Brazilian national team.
105. Nunes
Nunes is derived from Portuguese and means ‘Son of Nuno.’ This last name is also common in Spanish culture, where it is often spelled as Nunez. Amanda Nunes is a Brazilian fighter who competes in the United States.
106. Oliveira
The last name Oliveira is held by about 3% of people in Brazil and is the fourth most common surname. It originally meant ‘olive tree’ and was commonly used among Portuguese people. Fernanda Oliveira is a well-known ballet dancer from Brazil.
107. Ortega
Ortega is a surname of Spanish descent that was also used by the Portuguese. It is now commonly seen in countries with historical connections to Portugal, such as Brazil and the Philippines. Brian Ortega is a Mexican athlete who fights in mixed martial arts competitions in the United States.
108. Ortiz
The Spanish surname Ortiz originally meant ‘Son of Orti’ and is passed down from generation to generation. It comes from the Latin word for ‘fortune.’ Maria Ortiz was a hero in 17th-century Brazil known for defending the country from the Dutch.
109. Paz
In Portuguese, the word Paz means ‘peace.’ Catholics started using the name because peace was often discussed in Christ’s lessons. The surname Paz, or da Paz, is commonly found in Brazil and the Philippines. Barbara Paz is a renowned actress and producer from Brazil.
110. Pedreira
The last name Pedreira comes from Spain and is one of the oldest family names in that country. It eventually made its way to Portugal. Pedreira originally described locations with quarries, making it a surname based on the landscape.
111. Pedro
Pedro is the Portuguese version of the name Peter, which comes from the Greek word Petros that means ‘rock.’ It is commonly used as both a first name and a surname. In Brazilian history, Pedro has been used as a title for the leader who managed Portuguese matters in Brazil.
112. Pedrosa
Pedrosa is a last name that comes from people who lived in various places called ‘Pedrosa,’ which means ‘stoney.’ This surname is most common in Brazil. Dani Pedrosa is a famous motorcycle racer from Spain who competes in the Grand Prix events.
113. Pena
The last name Pena comes from the Spanish word ‘Pena,’ which translates to ‘rock’ or ‘cliff.’ In the past, it was common for people to take on surnames based on where they lived, so those near a cliff or rocky area would often choose Pena. This name originally comes from Galicia, Spain. Elizabeth Pena was a well-known actress in the United States.
114. Pereira
In Portuguese, ‘Pereira’ means ‘pear tree.’ The name ‘Pareira’ is not just a toponym but also a name used by people living in various places called ‘Pareira’ in Portuguese and Galician provinces. Many Brazilians have the last name ‘Pareira,’ with around 5,594,000 people bearing this surname. Lina Pareira is a well-known Brazilian singer, actor, and screenwriter.
115. Pears
Peres is a Hungarian word that means ‘litigant’. It is a common Sephardic surname in Spain and Portugal. Peres is derived from the father’s name Pedro, which is equivalent to Peter in English. Cristiana Peres is a well-known actress from Brazil.
116. Pinto
Pinto is a name of Portuguese origin, which means ‘painted’ or ‘shaded’. It was often used as a nickname for someone who was a painter or who had a scar. Today, the most people with the surname Pinto live in Brazil. Carlos Mota Pinto was a politician from Portugal.
117. Pires
Pires is a similar name to Peres and comes from the Spanish name Perez, meaning ‘son of Pedro.’ It’s a popular surname in Portugal and Brazil. Cleo Pires is a well-known actress from Brazil.
118. Pontes
Pontes is the Portuguese and Galician version of the name ‘Pont’ in English. It comes from places in Portugal called ‘Ponte’, which means ‘bridges’. Laura Ponte is a model from Spain.
119. Porto
In the past, when Portugal ruled Brazil, Portuguese immigrants in Brazil took the names of the cities they came from as their surnames. The word ‘Porto’ means ‘harbor’ in Portuguese. This is why the surname ‘Porto’ is more common in Brazil than in any other country, even though it is originally a Portuguese name.
120. Querino
Querino, originally from Italy, was first mentioned in the Calabria province near Sicily. As a merchant, the name became known in Spain and Portugal, and eventually in Brazil. Manuel Querino is a well-known art historian from Brazil.
121. Ramires
Ramires is a Portuguese last name that means ‘son of Ramiro.’ The Spanish version of the name is ‘Ramirez.’ It has its roots in Visigothic ancestry. Nowadays, the name is popular in Brazil.
122. Ramos
Ramos means ‘bouquets of flowers’ in Portuguese and Spanish. It is the 20th most common Hispanic surname worldwide. Sergio Ramos is a famous Spanish football player.
123. Reis
The last name Reis has its origins in Germany. Originally, it was used to describe large shrubs and was adopted as a surname by loggers and woodcutters. Over time, it became more common among the Portuguese and eventually made its way to Brazil. One famous person with the last name Reis is Nando Reis, a popular rockstar in Brazil who is known for his infectious rock and punk music that is loved by young people.
124. Ribas
Ribas comes from the Latin word Ripa, which used to mean ‘river banks.’ This name was commonly used by people living near rivers and seas. Other versions of the surname are Rivas and Riba. Nowadays, you can find this name in Brazil, Portugal, and Spain.
125. Ribeiro
Ribiero is a popular last name in Portugal and Brazil. In Portuguese, the name originally meant ‘riverside creek’ and was linked to the wine-producing regions of Galicia. Another version of the name is Riveiro. Éverton Ribeiro is a professional soccer player who competes for the Brazilian national team.
126. Ricardo
Ricardo is the Portuguese version of the name Richard in English. The name comes from ancient Germanic languages and means ‘powerful ruler.’ It is commonly used as a first name, but it is also seen as a surname in Brazil. The surname Ricardo is also common in the United States, with filmmaker James Ricardo being a notable example.
127. Rocha
In Portuguese, ‘Rocha’ means ‘rock’ or ‘boulder.’ The name became popular as a topographic name for people living in rocky or mountainous areas. Other variations of the name include Rochela and Roche. Glauber Rocha is a well-known filmmaker from Brazil.
128. Romano
Romano is a Portuguese last name that comes from the Latin word Romanus, used for people who lived in Rome. Many people in Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil and Sri Lanka have this name because Rome was an important city for the Pope and Catholic leaders. One well-known person with this last name is Fabrizio Romano, a sports journalist from Italy.
129. Romero
The name Romero was first a nickname for Roman travelers in the Byzantine era, meaning ‘pilgrim.’ It later became a common Hispanic surname among Spanish and Portuguese people. Sergio Romero plays as the goalkeeper for the Argentine national soccer team.
130. Rosa
Rosa is a name that means ‘Rose.’ It has different origins, with some people using it as a surname because they grew roses or lived where roses grew. Rosa is also a popular first name for women. Aaron Isaac Rosa used to be an American mixed martial artist.
131. Ruiz
The surname Ruiz comes from the Germanic name ‘Hrodric,’ which means ‘famous ruler.’ It can also be a patronymic name derived from Ruy (short for Rodrigo), which means ‘son of Roderick.’ Currently, there are over 26,000 people in Brazil with the last name Ruiz.
132. Sanchez
In Spain, it was typical for people to use their father’s name as a surname. Sanchez is one of these surnames, meaning ‘son of Sancto.’ Sancto is a common name from medieval times, derived from the Latin word ‘sanctus,’ meaning ‘sanctified.’ Diego Sanchez is a well-known fighter in mixed martial arts from America.
133. Santana
The last name Santana is popular in Brazil. People with this surname usually come from places in Spain called Santana. The name has origins in Galicia. Carlos Santana is a well-known guitarist who is Mexican-American.
134. Santiago
The name Santiago comes from the Spanish words ‘santo’ and ‘Yago,’ which mean ‘saint’ and ‘James.’ The name was adopted by families living in areas where a church was dedicated to Saint James. Herman Santiago was a singer in the rock and roll genre and wrote the song ‘Why do fools fall in love.’
135. Santos
Santos comes from the old Spanish word for ‘saint.’ This name has Christian roots and was commonly used by Parish families. The Santos surname is popular in Brazil and is the second most common surname, after Silva.
136. Senna
The last name Senna comes from Portugal and is believed to have been chosen to pay tribute to St. Catherine of Siena. This name is very common and was used by Ayrton Senna, a celebrated race car driver in Brazil who won many Grand Prix races.
137. Serra
Serra is a common last name in Portugal and Spain. It comes from Latin and means ‘mountain range.’ It was used as a last name for families living in mountainous areas of Portugal and became popular in Brazil during colonial times.
138. Silva
Silva comes from Latin and means ‘forest’, it is a common last name of Portuguese origin. It is the most popular surname in Brazil, with about 10% of the population having this name. The surname is also common in other countries that were once Portuguese colonies, such as the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
139. Simon
Simon is a last name with roots in Norse culture that was also popular among the Portuguese. The name means ‘victory’ and is commonly used as a first name. Carlos Simon, a well-known sports journalist from Brazil, has also officiated international football games.
140. Sousa
Sousa is the third most common last name in Brazil, with about 5% of the entire population using it. The name comes from the Sousa river in Portugal, and the first noble to use it was Egas Gomes de Sousa.’
141. Tavares
Tavares, also known as Tavarez in Spanish, was a common last name among Sephardic Jews who lived in Portugal. Fernanda Tavares is a well-known celebrity and supermodel from Brazil.
142. Teixeira
In Portuguese, the word ‘Teixo’ means the yew tree. People in Portugal often used names of trees and nature for their last names. The surname Texeira became popular in Brazil. Alex Texeira is a talented young soccer player from Brazil who used to play for Vasco da Gama.
143. Teodoro
Teodoro is the Portuguese version of the name Theodore, which comes from Greek roots. Theodore translates to ‘God’s gift’ and is often seen as a name with deep meaning. Lourdes Teodoro is a highly respected poet, artist, and writer from Brazil.
144. Torres
In Latin, Torres means ‘tower.’ The Portuguese started using it as a last name for people who lived near towers and castles. It’s interesting that Torres is a common last name in Brazil, Spain, and the USA. This name is closely associated with the Portuguese soccer player Fernando Torres.
145. Vargas
Vargas is a name that comes from the coastal towns of western Portugal and means ‘steep slope’. The surname was first recorded for a knight named Ivan de Vargas from Madrid in 1083. Nowadays, the surname Vargas is commonly seen in Mexico and other South American countries including Brazil.
146. Vasconcelos
The surname Vasconcelos comes from a family that ruled the Tower of Vasconcelos in Northern Portugal. They adopted the surname when they became the official rulers of the area. Nowadays, the largest population of Vasconcelos resides in Brazil.
147. Vasques
This last name is often used as an alternative to the Spanish name ‘Vasquez’ and is mainly used in Brazil. It is thought to have different origins, one possibility being that it is a last name based on the father’s name, meaning ‘son of Vasco’. Another possibility is that it is a last name for people who lived in the Basque region of Spain.
148. Verissimo
Verissimo is a Portuguese name that comes from the Roman Latin name ‘Varissimus,’ meaning ‘true.’ This name is commonly used for boys in Brazil, with more than 36000 individuals having it. Lucas Verissimo is a Brazilian soccer player who is a central defender for the Portuguese team Benfica.
149. Vicente
Vicente is a name that can be used as both a first name and a last name. When used as a last name, it signifies a heritage that is wealthy and has a long history. In Spanish and Portuguese, Vicente is the equivalent of the Latin name Vincent, which translates to ‘conquering.’ Fernando Vicente works as a professional tennis coach in Spain.
150. Viegas
The Viegas last name comes from the Visigoths, who were a Germanic group that lived in various parts of Germany from the 5th to the 8th century. Over time, the surname became well-known among the Portuguese and eventually made its way to Brazil. Fernanda Viegas is a successful scientist from Brazil who specializes in information visualization.
Explore additional baby names
When picking a name for your baby, you may find that a few hundred options just isn’t sufficient. Keep searching through the abundance of baby names until you discover the perfect one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brazilian culture is varied, and the same goes for Brazilian last names. Many of these names come from Portuguese and Spanish roots, developed from a mix of cultures during the colonial period. If you are Brazilian, researching these last names and their meanings can give you insight into your heritage and how Brazil has changed over time. Understanding your family history can be a sentimental journey that links your identity to the past of your ancestors who paved the way for you to explore!
Illustration: Brazilian Last Names Or Surnames With Meanings
Studying the common last names in a country can provide insight into the origin and history of its people. Brazil has a distinct naming system that reveals information about naming practices.
