Last Name Cañameras

The last name Cañameras is of Spanish origin. It derives from a professional occupation related to agriculture and livestock farming. Specifically, it refers to someone who tended or managed sheep pastures (canas de merino), known as "cañadas" in Spanish. Over time, the surname has evolved into its current form.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cañameras

The meaning and origin of the last name Cañameras

The surname Cañameras is of Spanish origin, specifically from the Iberian Peninsula. It derives from the Old Spanish word "caña" meaning "reed or cane," and "mera" or "mayor," which translates to "greater" or "larger." This surname was likely given to someone who lived near a larger field of reeds, possibly indicating their occupation related to these plants. The first recorded appearance of the name dates back to medieval times in Spain. The variation of this name can also be found as Cañamera in some regions and countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cañameras

The surname Cañameras is primarily distributed across Spain, particularly in its northeastern region, Aragon, and neighboring Catalonia. It also has significant presence in the communities of Castilla-La Mancha, Valencia, Navarra, and Extremadura. Outside of Spain, there are populations with this surname in Argentina, where it is predominantly found in the provinces of Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza, and La Rioja. Additionally, a small number of individuals bearing the Cañameras name can be found in Mexico, mainly in the states of Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Tabasco. The distribution pattern suggests migration from Spain to the Americas during colonial times.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cañameras

The surname Cañameras can have various spelling and pronunciation variations due to regional dialects and transliteration differences. Some possible spellings include Canamera, Canaméras, Canamerras, Canamerrer, Canamiras, Canamera, Canaméra, and Kanamera. It is important to note that the correct spelling may depend on the specific country or region where it originates. For example, in Spanish-speaking regions, it might be spelled with a "ñ" as Cañamera, while in other places it might be written as Canamera without the diacritical mark. Additionally, phonetic variations may occur due to different pronunciations of the same name in different parts of the world.

Famous people with the last name Cañameras

The Cañameras family has produced several notable figures across various fields. One of the most recognized is Enrique Cañamasas, a Spanish mechanical engineer and inventor who is renowned for his contributions to Formula One racing as the co-founder of Dallara Automobili, a company that produces open-wheel race cars. Another well-known figure is Juan Antonio Cañamares, a Spanish architect known for his Baroque Revival style. In the world of art, there is Eduardo Cañago y Cataño, a Puerto Rican painter and sculptor who played an important role in the development of modernist art in Puerto Rico during the 20th century. Lastly, Rafael Cañamares, a Mexican footballer, represented Mexico at international level and played for several top-tier clubs, including Pumas UNAM and Santos Laguna. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Cañameras

The surname Cañameras is of Spanish origin, derived from the Old Castilian word "caña" which means cane or reed, and the suffix "-meras", indicating belonging or relationship. It first appeared in medieval Spain during the late Middle Ages. One of the earliest recorded bearers of this name was Alonso Cañameras, who lived in the region of Castile-Leon during the 15th century. His descendants spread across various parts of Spain, particularly in Andalusia and Aragon, where they became prominent figures in agriculture, trade, and crafts. The name also migrated to South America in the 16th and 17th centuries with the Spanish colonization. Notable individuals with the surname Cañameras include Juan Cañameras y García de León, a notable jurist during the early modern period, and Antonio Cañameras, a Spanish-American architect who designed various landmarks in Cuba. Today, the Cañameras family can be found across Spain, America, and other parts of the world, retaining their unique heritage and contributing to diverse fields.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Cañameras"
• 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 : 13 June 2025

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