Last Name Carrillo

The surname "Carrillo" has a Spanish origin. It is a common surname in Spain, Latin America, and with people of Spanish descent. The surname is of patronymic origin, meaning it was derived from the given name of an ancestor. In this case, "Carrillo" is believed to have been derived from the name "Carro," which refers to a cart or a wagon in Spanish. Over time, this name evolved into the surname "Carrillo."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Carrillo

The meaning and origin of the last name Carrillo

The surname Carrillo has its origins in Spain, specifically in the region of Catalonia. It is derived from the word "carro," which means "cart" or "carriage" in Spanish. The surname Carrillo was initially used as a descriptive name for someone who worked or owned a cart or carriage. It is believed that individuals with this surname would have been involved in the transportation of goods or people, utilizing carts as their mode of transport. Over time, the surname Carrillo spread beyond Catalonia and became prevalent throughout Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries. Today, many descendants of the Carrillo family can be found in countries such as Mexico, Argentina, and the United States, where the surname has continued to thrive due to migration and the cultural influence of the Spanish-speaking world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Carrillo

The last name Carrillo has a significant geographical distribution, primarily found in Spain, Mexico, and the United States. In Spain, the name is most commonly found in the regions of Andalusia, Murcia, and Extremadura. Many individuals with the last name Carrillo can trace their ancestry to these regions, particularly Andalusia. In Mexico, Carrillo is a widespread surname, with a notable concentration in the states of Sinaloa, Oaxaca, and Jalisco. These regions have a rich cultural heritage and historical ties to the name. Additionally, the surname Carrillo can be found in other Latin American countries such as Colombia, Argentina, and Venezuela, albeit with lesser frequency. In the United States, Carrillo is most prevalent in states with high Hispanic populations, including California, Texas, and Arizona. Migration patterns and historical ties to Mexico have contributed to the widespread use of the surname in these regions. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Carrillo reflects the historical and cultural connections between Spain, Mexico, and Hispanic communities in the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Carrillo

The last name Carrillo can have several variations and spellings depending on cultural or regional differences. Some common variations of Carrillo include Carillo, Carrilo, Carrilho, and Carilho. These variations may be found in countries like Spain, Portugal, and their former colonies. Additionally, different regions or communities within these countries may have their own specific spelling of the last name, such as Carrillos or Querol in Spain. In Latin America, where the Spanish language is prevalent, the surname Carrillo may have additional variations due to the influence of local dialects or accents. Examples of these variations could be Carillo, Carrayo, Carilho, Kariyo, or even Karilho. Furthermore, historically, the spellings of surnames have also been altered or anglicized as families migrated to different countries. Therefore, it is not uncommon to find Carrillo spelled as Carillo or Carillo in English-speaking regions or Carrilho in Portuguese-speaking regions. Overall, due to historical, cultural, and regional factors, the last name Carrillo can have numerous variations and spellings, offering a rich diversity and reflection of the global Hispanic community.

Famous people with the last name Carrillo

One famous person with the last name Carrillo is Carlos Carrillo, a renowned Mexican composer and conductor. Known for his mastery of orchestral and symphonic music, Carrillo's compositions have been performed by prestigious orchestras around the world. His works often showcase a unique blend of Mexican folklore and Western classical traditions, earning him critical acclaim and numerous awards. Another well-known figure with the last name Carrillo is Edward James Olmos, whose full name is Edward James Olmos Carrillo. Olmos is a highly respected American actor and director, best known for his roles in films such as "Stand and Deliver" and "Blade Runner." Throughout his career, Olmos has been recognized for his outstanding acting talents, receiving nominations including an Academy Award and multiple Golden Globe Awards. These are just a few examples of renowned individuals who have brought fame and distinction to the Carrillo name through their artistic achievements and contributions to their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Carrillo

The surname Carrillo has its origin in Spain and has a rich genealogical history. It is derived from the Spanish word "carril," meaning "narrow road." The name Carrillo indicates that the original bearers of the surname were likely associated with a place located near a narrow road or a path. According to genealogical records, the Carrillo surname is widespread in Spain, particularly in the regions of Andalusia, Extremadura, and Castile. Over the centuries, many Carrillo families migrated to various parts of the world, including Mexico, the United States, and other Latin American countries. Researching the genealogy of the Carrillo name would involve tracing family lines back through time, analyzing historical records, and gathering information from birth, marriage, and death certificates, census records, church records, and other important documents. It is a fascinating endeavor that can offer valuable insights into individuals' ancestral heritage, connections to specific regions, and potentially unveil prominent figures or notable achievements within the Carrillo lineage.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Carrillo"
• 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

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