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Last Name Cerejo

What is the origin of the last name Cerejo?

The surname "Cerejo" is of Portuguese origin. It is a variant of the original surnames "Cerezo" (cherry tree) or "Cerio," derived from the Latin word "cerium," which means cherry tree. The use of this name may have been influenced by the presence of cherry trees in the region where the family lived, likely Portugal or a Portuguese-speaking area such as Brazil.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cerejo

The meaning and origin of the last name Cerejo

The surname Cerejo (or Cerjeo) is of Spanish origin, primarily found in Portugal, Spain, and regions inhabited by their descendants, such as South America. It is derived from the occupational name "cerejero," which refers to someone who deals with cherries or cherry trees. The name could also be a topographic name for someone living near a grove of cherries or a place named with that word. Over time, the surname has been adapted and variations may exist due to differences in regional pronunciation and spelling. Notable individuals bearing this name include Jose Antonio Cerezo, former president of Mexico, and Portuguese footballer Rui Cereijo. The surname Cerejo is a testament to the rich history and cultural diversity found within Iberian societies, particularly in relation to agriculture and occupation-based naming practices.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cerejo

The last name Cerejo is primarily distributed across several regions in Portugal and Spain, reflecting its roots in the Iberian Peninsula. In Portugal, it is most common in the northern provinces, particularly in districts such as Braga, Porto, Vila Real, and Viseu. In Spain, it is more frequently found in Galicia, specifically in the provinces of A Coruña, Lugo, Ourense, and Pontevedra, due to historical migration patterns between the two countries. Small numbers of Cerejo-s can also be found in other Spanish regions such as Castile and León, Madrid, and Valencia. Additionally, there are diaspora communities with the surname Cerejo in South America, particularly in Brazil and Argentina, where some Portuguese immigrants settled during colonial times.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cerejo

The surname Cerejo has various spellings and variations across regions. Some common variations include Cerijo, Cerexo, Cerhejo, and Cirhejo. These variations are likely due to differences in regional pronunciation and spelling conventions over time. Other less common variations may include Cerexho, Cerijo-Lopes, and Cerijo-Melo, which could result from the addition of a patronymic or matronymic surname. It is essential to note that the accuracy of these spellings can depend on historical records and personal preference, as many individuals may choose to anglicize their names upon immigration.

Famous people with the last name Cerejo

Notable individuals with the surname Cerejo include:

1. José Vicente de Cerezo y Cerdán (1932–2016), a Spanish lawyer and politician who served as President of Spain from 1978 to 1982. He was the first democratically elected head of state after the death of General Francisco Franco.

2. José María Cerezo (born 1954), a Spanish former professional footballer, primarily as a forward. He played for Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Real Betis Balompie, winning numerous La Liga titles and the UEFA Cup with Real Madrid.

3. Luiz Felipe Scolari Cerejo (born 1948), known as Felipão, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a striker. He has managed several national teams, including Brazil, Portugal, and the Czech Republic, leading Brazil to win the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

4. Pedro Cerezo (born 1984), a Spanish actor. He is best known for his roles in Spanish television series such as Cuéntame como pasó and Los hombres de Paco.

These notable figures, all sharing the last name Cerejo, have made significant contributions to their respective fields: politics, sports, and entertainment.

Genealogical research on the last name Cerejo

The surname Cerejo is primarily found in Portugal and Brazil, with origins tracing back to medieval Iberia. In Portugal, the name emerged as a topographic or occupational surname from the Latin word "cereus," meaning candle or wax, referring to someone who lived near a source of wax or candles, or possibly a maker of candles. Alternatively, it could have been an occupational name for a potter, as "cereja" is Portuguese for cherry, and ceramic objects shaped like cherries were common in medieval pottery production. The surname migrated to Brazil with Portuguese settlers, where it continues to be widespread today. Notable figures bearing the Cerejo name include Manuel Joaquim Cerejeira, a Portuguese cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, and Jorge Cerejeiras, a Brazilian football coach.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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