Last Name Bonilla

The last name "Bonilla" is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the place name "Bonilla de la Sierra," a small municipality located in the province of Ávila, in the autonomous community of Castile and León, Spain. Therefore, individuals bearing the surname "Bonilla" are likely to have ancestral roots in this region of Spain.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bonilla

The meaning and origin of the last name Bonilla

The surname "Bonilla" is of Spanish origin and can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the word "bono," meaning "good" or "worthy," and originates from the region of Castile in central Spain. The surname "Bonilla" is classified as a locational surname, indicating that it was likely adopted by families who resided in or near the town of Bonilla, located in the Ávila province of Spain. As is common with locational surnames, individuals who carried the surname "Bonilla" may have migrated and settled in different regions, leading to its spread beyond the original geographical area. Over time, various branches of the Bonilla family may have emerged, each with its own unique history and lineage. Today, the surname can be found throughout the Spanish-speaking world and has become a part of many diverse cultures.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bonilla

The last name Bonilla has a widespread presence across various regions of the world. It has a particularly strong distribution in Latin American countries such as Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, and El Salvador. In these countries, Bonilla is a relatively common surname, indicating a significant number of individuals with this family name. Additionally, the name is prevalent in Spain, specifically in the regions of Galicia and Asturias, where it is believed to have originated. Outside of Latin America and Spain, the surname Bonilla can also be found among individuals of Hispanic descent living in the United States, particularly in states with large Hispanic populations such as California, Texas, and Florida. Immigration and migration patterns have further contributed to the spread of the Bonilla surname in other countries, such as Canada, Germany, and various parts of the Caribbean, as well as among individuals of Hispanic heritage living in other regions of the world. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Bonilla surname reflects its Spanish and Latin American roots, with a notable presence in these regions and their diaspora communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bonilla

The last name Bonilla, originally from Spain, has undergone several variations and spellings throughout history due to migration and language adaptations. Variations of the name can be found across different regions and countries, adding to the diversity of its phonetic and written representations. One of the most common variations is spelled as Buñuelas, which highlights the presence of Spanish influence. In some instances, the name is spelled as Vonilla, indicating the assimilation of the surname into different cultural contexts. The spelling Bunila is another variant found, showcasing the impact of regional phonetics on name adaptations. Additionally, further variations such as Vonilla and Bonille are occasionally seen, highlighting certain individuals' preference or transcription errors. These various spellings and adaptations serve as evidence of the surname's evolution and the impact of migration, language, and cultural diversity on name morphology. Whether spelled Bonilla, Buñuelas, Vonilla, Bunila, or Bonille, this surname remains an important part of diverse family histories around the world.

Famous people with the last name Bonilla

One famous individual with the last name Bonilla is Bobby Bonilla, a former professional baseball player. Born on February 23, 1963, in the Bronx, New York, Bobby Bonilla had a successful career as an outfielder in Major League Baseball (MLB). He played for several teams such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets, and Baltimore Orioles, earning accolades like six All-Star selections. Bobby Bonilla was known for his powerful bat and defensive skills, contributing significantly to the success of his teams. However, he gained further prominence for signing a unique contract with the New York Mets in 2000. The contract allowed him to defer payment of his salary until 2011, with an annual interest rate of 8%. This resulted in Bonilla being paid a considerable sum every year on July 1st, earning him the nickname "Mr. July." He continues to be remembered in the world of baseball for this unusual financial agreement.

Genealogical research on the last name Bonilla

The surname Bonilla originates from the medieval region of Asturias in northern Spain. It is derived from the word "bonu," meaning "good" in Latin, and refers to a person with honorable or good qualities. The Bonilla family can trace its lineage back to the 13th century, where records show members of the family residing in the town of Bonilla de la Sierra. Over time, various branches of the Bonilla family spread throughout Spain, with notable concentrations in regions such as Castilla, Extremadura, and Andalusia. The surname's popularity also expanded due to emigration, particularly during the Spanish colonization of the Americas. Today, descendants of the Bonilla family can be found in various parts of the world, including countries like Mexico, the United States, and Argentina. Through genealogical research, it is possible to uncover the extensive history and connections of the Bonilla surname across generations and continents.

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