Last Name Cara

The surname "Cara" has Italian and Spanish origins. In Italian, it translates to 'dear' or 'beloved', derived from the word 'caro'. In Spanish, it also means 'face'. These names have been used as both personal names and surnames in their respective countries over many centuries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cara

The meaning and origin of the last name Cara

The surname Cara has its origins in various regions, with diverse linguistic backgrounds contributing to its development. In Italian, Cara means "beloved" or "dear", derived from the Latin word "carus". It was often given as a term of affection to children, reflecting the parent's fondness for them. In Spain and Portugal, it is also a common surname, with possible roots in the Arabic language, where "karim" means noble or generous. The name has spread globally through migration, particularly during the Middle Ages and later colonial periods. Notable individuals bearing this name include the American actor James Cara Radcliffe, popularly known as Jim Carrey, and the Italian fashion designer Roberto Cara. Overall, the surname Cara signifies love and affection in its various linguistic forms, symbolizing a sense of connection and endearment across cultures.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cara

The surname Cara is predominantly found across several regions globally, with significant concentrations in Portugal and Spain. In Portugal, it ranks among the top 200 most common surnames, and is particularly prevalent in the northern district of Vila Real, as well as in Braga and Porto. In Spain, it is most frequently encountered in the provinces of Zaragoza, Huesca, and Lleida, all located in the northeastern region of Aragon. Additionally, small clusters of Cara-surnamed individuals can be found in Italy (particularly Lombardy), France (Catalonia), and South America, where many Portuguese and Spanish immigrants settled in the past centuries. The name's dispersal also reflects historical migration patterns, including the Moorish conquest of the Iberian Peninsula, the Reconquista, and subsequent emigration to other parts of Europe and the New World.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cara

The surname Cara, or variants thereof, has multiple spellings and variations across different regions and cultures. Some common spelling variations include Carrah, Care, Carae, Caraeh, Karah, Kara, Karr, Karra, and Carson (which is of Scottish origin). These variations may be due to phonetic changes, regional dialects, or immigration-related adjustments over time. Other less common variants include Caray, Karaya, and Karey. It's essential to note that these variations may also have different origins and meanings, such as "beloved" in Greek for the name Kara, while Carson originates from an Old Norse name meaning "son of Carr". Understanding these variants can provide valuable insights into genealogy, cultural backgrounds, and historical contexts.

Famous people with the last name Cara

Cara Delevingne and Cailee Carson are two of the most renowned individuals bearing the surname 'Cara.' Born in London, England in 1992, Cara Jocelyn Delevingne is a globally recognized model, actress, and singer. She rose to prominence in the fashion world, walking for prestigious designers such as Burberry, Chanel, and Marc Jacobs, and was named Model of the Year by British Fashion Council in 2014. In addition, she has graced the covers of numerous magazines like Vogue and Elle. Her film career includes roles in 'Suicide Squad,' 'Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets,' and 'Anna and the Apocalypse.' Cailee Carson, born in 1986, is an American television host and model. She gained recognition as a contestant on cycle 7 of America's Next Top Model in 2008 and later became a host for the show from 2010 to 2015. She has also worked as a co-host for E!'s Fashion Police, providing commentary on red carpet fashion events. Both women have made significant strides in their respective fields, making the name 'Cara' synonymous with glamour and success.

Genealogical research on the last name Cara

The surname Cara has Italian and Spanish origins, both derived from the Latin word "carus" meaning dear or beloved. In Italy, the name is primarily found in regions such as Lombardy, Veneto, and Emilia-Romagna, with a significant number of Caras also present in Sicily. In Spain, the name can be found in Aragon, Valencia, and Catalonia, where it may have been introduced by Italian immigrants. Throughout history, notable individuals bearing the Cara surname include Bartolomeo Cara, an Italian poet who was a contemporary of Petrarch; and Luis de Carvajal y de la Cueva, a Spanish conquistador who played a significant role in the conquest of New Spain (Mexico). The surname also has notable Jewish and Sephardic origins, with many Cara families tracing their roots to Italy or Spain. In modern times, the distribution of the Cara surname extends beyond its original homelands, as diaspora and migration have dispersed the family throughout Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. The name remains relatively uncommon in comparison to other Italian and Spanish surnames, but is a testament to the rich history and global reach of these two cultures.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Cara"
• 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 June 2025

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