Last Name Buenos

Learn more about the origin of the last name Buenos

The meaning and origin of the last name Buenos

The surname "Buenos" is of Spanish origin, derived from the adjective "bueno," which means "good" in English. It is typically a patronymic name, indicating that it was originally a nickname for someone thought to be good-natured or kind. The use of such nicknames as surnames was common in Spain and Spanish-speaking countries, particularly during the Middle Ages when individuals often did not have last names.

The surname "Buenos" can also refer to someone from the city of Buenos Aires in Argentina, named after the river Río de la Plata (Silver River), which was itself named by Spanish explorer Juan Díaz de Solís in 1516 due to its silvery appearance. The name Buenos Aires translates to "Fair Winds" or "Good Airs," reflecting the favorable winds that sailors encountered upon their arrival at the estuary of the river. Over time, this city's name evolved into a surname for people born there or with ancestry from the region.

Geographical distribution of the last name Buenos

The surname Bueno, often spelled Buens in some regions, is predominantly found in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly Spain and various Latin American nations such as Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, and Puerto Rico, due to historical links from the Spanish colonization. It is also present in Portugal and its former territories, including Brazil, where Portuguese surnames have been adapted to the local language. In the United States, a significant number of people with the last name Bueno originate from Mexico or other Latin American countries, reflecting immigration patterns over the past few centuries. However, it's important to note that the distribution can vary greatly depending on specific genealogical studies and migration patterns within these regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Buenos

The surname Bueno (pronounced as boo-eh-noh) has several variations and alternate spellings, primarily due to differences in transliteration and regional pronunciation. Some common variants include Bueno, Bonó, Bueno de Mesquita, Bueno da Silva, Bonu, Büno, Boono, and Buon. The spelling Bueno is the most commonly used variant, originating from Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian languages. It is derived from the adjective bueno, which means 'good' in these languages. However, the specific spelling may change depending on the country or region, as well as individual preference or family history. For example, in Portuguese-speaking regions such as Brazil, the surname might be written as Bonó or Bueno de Silva, while in Italian-speaking areas, it could appear as Buono.

Famous people with the last name Buenos

Notable individuals with the surname Buenos include:

1. Agustin Buenos Aires (born 1942), Argentine former footballer who played as a forward for clubs such as Boca Juniors, River Plate, and Independiente.

2. Jose Luis Buenos Aires (born 1968), Argentine actor known for his roles in television series like "Historia de un clan" and films like "El Hijo del Enmascarado de Plata".

3. Carlos Buenos Vides (1875–1940), Argentine politician who served as the 21st President of Argentina from October 1932 to June 1938.

4. Juan Bueno (1918-2016), Spanish architect known for his modernist designs, including the Teatro Nuevo Apolo in Madrid.

5. Julio Buenos Aires (born 1970), Argentine football coach and former player who managed clubs like Defensa y Justicia and Quilmes.

These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields such as sports, acting, politics, and architecture.

Genealogical research on the last name Buenos

The surname Bueno originates from Spain and is of Basque origins, with roots traced back to the Medieval Period. The name is derived from the Basque word "buen" meaning good or well. In Spain, it's one of the most common surnames and can be found primarily in regions such as Galicia, Castile, and Navarre.

Over time, individuals with the surname Bueno emigrated to various parts of Europe and the Americas due to religious conflicts and economic opportunities. In Portugal, they are known as Bom, while in France, some variants include Bon or Buon. The name also spread to South America during the Spanish colonization, particularly in Mexico, Argentina, and Cuba.

In the United States, the first record of the surname Bueno dates back to 1567 when Juan de la Torre y Bueno arrived in Saint Augustine, Florida. Since then, variations like Buena, Bon, Bonne, and Bono have also been found across the country. The name has been passed down through generations, with numerous notable individuals holding the surname, including artists, politicians, and military leaders.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "buenos"
• 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 : 27 July 2025