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Last Name Belchior

What is the origin of the last name Belchior?

The last name "Belchior" is of Portuguese origin. It comes from the given name "Belchior", which is derived from the Latin name "Balthasar", meaning "protect the king". It is a common surname in Portugal and Brazil.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Belchior

The meaning and origin of the last name Belchior

The surname Belchior is of Portuguese origin, derived from the given name Belchior, which means "wise man" in Portuguese. The name Belchior is said to have biblical origins, as Belchior is commonly associated with one of the Magi who visited the infant Jesus in the nativity story. The surname Belchior is believed to have been given to individuals who were considered wise, knowledgeable, or esteemed in their communities. Over time, the surname Belchior has spread beyond Portugal and can now be found in various Portuguese-speaking countries as well as among Portuguese diaspora communities around the world. Today, individuals with the surname Belchior may still hold qualities of intelligence, wisdom, and respect within their families and communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Belchior

The surname Belchior is most commonly found in Portugal and Brazil, where it has historical roots and a significant population of individuals carrying the name. In Portugal, the surname is spread throughout various regions, including Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. In Brazil, Belchior is primarily found in the northeastern states such as Ceará, Paraíba, and Pernambuco, as well as in the southeast in states like São Paulo and Minas Gerais. The surname may also be present in smaller numbers in other countries with historical ties to Portugal or Brazil, such as Angola, Mozambique, and the United States. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Belchior reflects the migration patterns and settlement history of Portuguese and Brazilian populations over the centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Belchior

Belchior may also be spelled as Belchiora, Belkior, Belkiora, Belkiori, Belchiar, Belchiori, Belcheor, Belchiore, or Belechior. These variations often depend on regional accents or translations to different languages, as surnames can evolve over time. Whether it's spelled with an "a" or an "i," the name Belchior still retains its Portuguese origin and meaning, which is ultimately derived from the biblical name Balthasar. The surname may also have different suffixes in different regions, but the core of the name remains consistent. Belchior is a relatively rare surname, particularly outside of Portuguese-speaking countries, and its variations highlight the diverse ways in which surnames can be interpreted and adapted by different cultures.

Famous people with the last name Belchior

One famous person with the last name Belchior is Brazilian singer and songwriter, Belchior. Born Antonio Carlos Belchior on October 26, 1946, he became one of the most iconic figures in Brazilian music during the 1970s. Belchior's poetic lyrics and unique musical style set him apart from other artists of his time, and he gained a large following for his introspective and socially conscious songs. Some of his most well-known hits include "A Palo Seco" and "Velha Roupa Colorida." Belchior's influence on Brazilian music is still felt today, and he is remembered as a talented and visionary artist who made a significant impact on the country's cultural landscape.

Genealogical research on the last name Belchior

The surname Belchior has Portuguese origins, derived from the first name Belchior, meaning "king of light" or "he who brings good news." The name Belchior is believed to have originated during the Middle Ages in Portugal, with records of individuals bearing the name found as far back as the 15th century. The Belchior family likely belonged to the nobility or aristocracy, as evidenced by their use of a first name as a surname, a common practice among noble families. Over the centuries, the Belchior name spread to other Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil, where it is still found today. Genealogical research on the Belchior surname may reveal connections to prominent historical figures, royal lineages, or notable events in Portuguese history.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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