Last Name Botelho

Learn more about the origin of the last name Botelho

The meaning and origin of the last name Botelho

The surname Botelho has its origin in the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in Portugal. It is a Portuguese surname derived from the word "botica," which refers to a small shop or pharmacy where medications were prepared and sold during medieval times. The name Botelho was initially a nickname given to someone who either owned or worked in a botica. Over time, it became a hereditary surname, passed down through generations within families.

Botelho is a relatively common surname in Portugal, and its bearers can be found in various regions of the country. As Portugal was known for its explorations and colonies during the Age of Discovery, the surname also spread to other Portuguese-speaking countries, including Brazil. Today, individuals with the surname Botelho can be found in different parts of the world, predominantly in countries with historical Portuguese influence.

Geographical distribution of the last name Botelho

The surname Botelho has its geographical distribution primarily in Portugal and Brazil. In Portugal, Botelho is most commonly found in the regions of Lisbon, Porto, and Braga. These areas have historically been significant in terms of population and economic activity, which likely contributed to the concentration of the surname. Brazil, on the other hand, has a large population of Portuguese descendants due to historical colonization and immigration. Botelho is prevalent in various Brazilian states, including Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, the surname can also be found in smaller numbers in other Portuguese-speaking countries such as Angola and Mozambique. The presence of the Botelho surname in these countries is likely attributed to migration and historical connections with Portugal. Overall, the distribution of the Botelho surname reflects the historical ties between Portugal and its former colonies, as well as patterns of migration and settlement.

Variants and spellings of the last name Botelho

The last name Botelho has several variations and spellings across different regions and cultures. In Portuguese-speaking countries, such as Portugal and Brazil, the spelling Botelho is most commonly used. However, there are also variations like Bothello, Boteiro, Boteiro, and Boitelo. These variations may have originated from different historical periods or specific migrations within the country. Additionally, the last name may have further adaptations due to phonetic influences or transcription errors. In non-Portuguese speaking countries, the spelling and pronunciation of Botelho may vary even more. People with this last name may choose to modify the spelling to suit the phonetic rules of their language or to fit in with the local naming conventions. Overall, the variations and spellings of the last name Botelho reflect the diverse historical and cultural influences that have shaped the surnames in different regions of the world.

Famous people with the last name Botelho

There are several famous individuals with the last name Botelho, who have made notable contributions in various fields. In the world of sports, one prominent figure is Ricardo Botelho, a Brazilian footballer who played as a forward for several clubs including Vasco da Gama and Internacional. His skills on the field earned him recognition and a loyal fan base. Another noteworthy individual is Marcia Botelho, a renowned Brazilian artist. Her captivating paintings and sculptures have been showcased in galleries around the world, depicting her unique vision and creativity. Additionally, in the academic sphere, Dr. Ana Botelho has made significant contributions to the field of psychology. Her research and writings on cognitive development and child psychology have been highly regarded in the scientific community. These Botelhos have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, shaping their industries and inspiring others.

Genealogical research on the last name Botelho

The surname Botelho originated from the Iberian Peninsula, specifically Portugal, with its roots tracing back to the medieval times. The name is derived from the Portuguese word "botelha," meaning a small bottle or flask. The Botelho family can be found in various regions of Portugal, such as Lisbon, Madeira, and the Azores Islands. They were historically an influential and prominent family, often engaging in commerce and maritime activities. Over time, individuals with the last name Botelho migrated to different parts of the world, particularly to Brazil and the United States. Today, the Botelho family continues to have a widespread presence globally, carrying their ancestral surname with pride. Genealogical research on the Botelho name allows individuals to explore their heritage and connect with their Portuguese roots, uncovering the stories of their ancestors and the remarkable legacy left by generations of Botelhos throughout history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Botelho"
• 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