Last Name Camarillo

Learn more about the origin of the last name Camarillo

The meaning and origin of the last name Camarillo

The surname Camarillo is of Spanish origin, specifically derived from the regions of Andalusia and Castile in Spain. It is an occupational name, derived from the word "camarero" or "camarilla," which means chamberlain or attendant to a nobleman or royal court. The surname Camarillo first appeared during the Middle Ages when the feudal system was widespread in Spain. In this system, peasants were assigned various roles and duties, often based on their skills and abilities. Over time, these occupational names became hereditary, and those who performed similar jobs passed down the surname to their descendants. The name Camarillo is common in many Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Mexico and the United States due to historical migration patterns.

Geographical distribution of the last name Camarillo

The surname Camarillo is primarily distributed across Spanish-speaking regions, with significant concentrations in Spain and various Latin American countries, including Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Colombia, and Peru. In the United States, it is most frequently found in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois, reflecting historical immigration patterns from these countries. The name is also present in smaller numbers in other parts of the world, such as Central America, South America, and the Philippines, where there are communities with roots in Spanish or Latin American cultures. It is important to note that the frequency of a surname can be influenced by various factors, including historical events, migration patterns, and local naming traditions, making it an interesting subject for sociolinguistic studies.

Variants and spellings of the last name Camarillo

The surname Camarillo has several variations and spellings in English and other languages. Here are some of them:

* Camarello
* Camerello
* Camerlengo
* Camarelly
* Camarlego
* Camarelo
* Camarlenghi
* Camarlingo
* Camaraglio
* Camaraggio
* Camarraigo
* Camarrella
* Camarrillo (most common)

These variations may arise due to differences in spelling conventions, regional dialects, or misinterpretations during the process of immigration and assimilation.

Famous people with the last name Camarillo

Notable individuals with the surname Camarillo include:

1. Omarion Grandey Camarillo, an American singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor, best known as the lead vocalist of the R&B group B2K.

2. Daniela Camarillo, a Mexican race car driver who is the first woman to compete in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the first Mexican woman to participate in a NASCAR national series race.

3. Jocelyn Camarillo, an American actress known for her roles in films like "Rush Hour 2" and television shows such as "ER".

4. Rene Camarillo, a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for teams including the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds.

5. Anthony Camarillo, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant general who served as director of the Defense Intelligence Agency from 2012 to 2014.

These individuals have made significant contributions in music, sports, acting, and military intelligence, demonstrating the versatility and accomplishments of those bearing the Camarillo surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Camarillo

The surname Camarillo originates from Spain, specifically the region of Andalusia. It is derived from the Old Spanish word "camarín," meaning small room or chamber, and was primarily used as a surname for individuals associated with palaces or grand households, likely serving in various roles such as attendants, guards, or administrators. The Camarillo family migrated to Mexico during the colonial period and later spread throughout Latin America. In the United States, the name became prevalent due to Spanish immigration primarily from Mexico, particularly to California, where the town of Camarillo was named after a prominent local family. Today, the Camarillo surname is found globally but remains most concentrated in Spain, Mexico, and the United States. Notable individuals bearing this surname include Ricardo Camarillo, a Cuban-American baseball player, and Adolfo Camarillo, a Mexican general during the Mexican Revolution.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Camarillo"
• 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 : 10 June 2025