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Last Name Coelho

What is the origin of the last name Coelho?

The surname "Coelho" is of Portuguese origin. It comes from the Old Portuguese word "coelho," which means "hare." Like many surnames, it was often used to identify a person by their physical appearance or occupation. In this case, it could have been given to someone who had rabbit-like features or was a hunter of hares. The surname "Coelho" is common in Portugal and its former colonies, such as Brazil.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Coelho

The meaning and origin of the last name Coelho

The surname Coelho is of Portuguese origin, stemming from the Latin word 'cochlea' which means snail. In Portugal, it was originally given to people who had physical characteristics resembling a snail, such as curly hair or a slow walk. Over time, the name spread across borders and became common in countries with Portuguese influence, including Brazil, where it remains one of the most popular surnames today. The variant Coehlo is also found, originating from the diminutive form 'coelhinho', meaning young hare. In Portuguese-speaking cultures, the surname Coelho symbolizes resilience and adaptability, much like its namesake animal that navigates through various terrains with grace and tenacity.

Geographical distribution of the last name Coelho

The surname Coelho is predominantly found in Portugal, particularly in its coastal regions and the Algarve, reflecting its historical roots in the Iberian Peninsula. It also has significant presence in Brazil, due to the large Portuguese immigration during the colonial period. In addition, Coelhos can be found in other Portuguese-speaking countries like Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, and Guinea-Bissau, as a result of historical ties and migrations. The name is less common in other parts of the world, but it has been carried by immigrants to North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania, where small Coelho communities exist today.

Variants and spellings of the last name Coelho

The surname Coelho has several variations and spellings, most of which originate from Portugal but can also be found among Portuguese descendants worldwide. Some common variations include: Coelho, Cóelho, Coelo, Coelhô, Coehlo, Coiolo, Cojolo, Coilho, Coillho, Coellho, and Kohlo (in some Brazilian German families). These differences in spelling may arise from regional dialects, phonetic interpretations, or transcription errors during immigration. The name is derived from the Portuguese word "coelho," meaning hare, reflecting its animal origin as a patronymic surname.

Famous people with the last name Coelho

Paulo Coelho, born in 1947, is arguably the most renowned individual with the surname Coelho. A Brazilian novelist, his works have been translated into more than 80 languages, selling an estimated 300 million copies worldwide. His famous books include "The Alchemist," a story of self-discovery and following one's dreams that has become one of the best-selling books in history, and "Veronika Decides to Die," a tale about a young woman contemplating suicide who finds meaning in life through unexpected experiences. Another notable figure with the surname Coelho is Isabela Coelho, an American ballet dancer who has performed with companies such as Boston Ballet and San Francisco Ballet, known for her technical precision and expressive artistry.

Genealogical research on the last name Coelho

The surname Coelho originates from Portugal and is of Old Portuguese origin, derived from the occupational name for a pilot or shipmaster, 'coelheiro', which comes from 'cobra de coelha' (rabbit trap), as sailors in coastal areas were often compared to rabbits due to their quick movement. The first documented use of the name Coelho is found in the 12th century, with Rui Coelho appearing in records from the county of Portalegre. Throughout history, the Coelhos have been prominent figures in Portugal and its colonies, including Brazil, where they were among the earliest settlers. Notable individuals bearing this surname include poet Fernando Pessoa, who is considered one of the greatest Portuguese writers of the 20th century, and Nobel laureate José Saramago. The Coelho family can be found in various regions of Portugal, as well as in Brazil, North America, Africa, and other parts of the world due to historical migrations.

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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 : 10 June 2025

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