Last Name Amaral

The surname Amaral is of Portuguese origin. It is derived from the word "amargura" meaning bitterness. It is a toponymic surname commonly associated with several places in Portugal, especially in the north and central regions.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Amaral

The meaning and origin of the last name Amaral

The surname Amaral is of Portuguese origin and has multiple meanings. It derives from the word "amarelo," which means "yellow" in Portuguese. The name may have been given to someone with a yellowish complexion or blond hair. Alternatively, the name could also refer to someone living in or from a place named Amaral, which is a common toponymic surname. Amaral is a fairly common surname in Portugal and is also found in other Portuguese-speaking countries such as Brazil. The name's popularity can be attributed to the historical spread of the Portuguese language and emigration of Portuguese individuals. Today, individuals with the surname Amaral can be found throughout the world due to migration and globalization. The name represents a connection to Portuguese culture and heritage and is often cherished by those who bear it.

Geographical distribution of the last name Amaral

The last name Amaral has a widespread geographical distribution, primarily found in countries with historical connections to Portugal and its diaspora. The largest concentration of individuals with the Amaral surname can be found in Portugal itself, particularly in the regions of Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira. Due to its colonial past, Brazil also boasts a significant population of Amarals, particularly in states such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais. Other South American countries, such as Uruguay and Argentina, also have notable communities of individuals with the Amaral last name. Outside of the Americas, the Amaral surname can be found in other former Portuguese colonies, including Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. Furthermore, individuals with this surname can also be found in various communities of Portuguese descent in countries such as the United States, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom.

Variants and spellings of the last name Amaral

The last name Amaral has several variations and spellings, reflecting the diverse origins and influences of the name. One common variation is Amarante, which emphasizes the Portuguese origin of the surname. Another variation is Amorim, which is often associated with families that migrated from the Portuguese region of Minho. In Brazil, where Portuguese influence is significant, the name can be spelled as Amorim, Amarante, or Amarau. In Spain, the name Amaral is also prevalent, particularly in regions such as Galicia and Asturias. In some cases, the last name could be spelled with a double "r" as Amararral or Amarall, indicating possible variations within specific branches of family lineages. Furthermore, variations may also occur as individuals move across different countries, leading to adaptations like Amorale, Amarall, and Amoral. Given the multiple variations and spellings, it is crucial to consider the specific context and historical background of each family using the Amaral surname.

Famous people with the last name Amaral

One famous person with the last name Amaral is Ana Amaral, a renowned Portuguese artist. Born in Lisbon in 1956, Ana Amaral is known for her abstract and vibrant paintings that often depict human figures. Her artworks have been exhibited in various galleries and museums globally, including Portugal, Spain, France, and the United States. Amaral's works demonstrate her innovative use of colors and textures, creating a unique visual experience for viewers.

Another notable figure with the last name Amaral is Gustavo Amaral, a prominent Brazilian football player. Born in 1981, Gustavo Amaral played as a goalkeeper for several renowned football clubs in Brazil, including São Paulo FC and Cruzeiro. Known for his agility and exceptional reflexes, he was a vital presence in the goal and contributed to his teams' success. Amaral's impressive performances earned him recognition as one of the top goalkeepers in Brazilian football during his career.

Genealogical research on the last name Amaral

The surname Amaral is of Portuguese origin and can be traced back to the medieval era. It is derived from the Portuguese word "amarelo," meaning "yellow," and was most likely used as a nickname for someone with fair or light-colored hair. As a patronymic surname, it indicates "son of Amaral," suggesting that the first person to bear this name was the son of someone named Amaral. The surname is also prevalent in Brazil, resulting from the Portuguese colonization. Over time, various branches of the Amaral family have spread across different regions and continents. Genealogical research would require delving into birth, marriage, and death records, as well as census data, immigration records, and other historical documents. Tracing the origins and connections of individuals with the last name Amaral would involve an extensive exploration of archives, digitized records, and collaboration with family members to build a comprehensive family tree.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Amaral"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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