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Last Name Cofiño

What is the origin of the last name Cofiño?

The last name Cofino is of Sephardic Jewish origin, with roots in Spain. It is believed to have originated from the town of Cofiño in the province of Asturias. Sephardic Jews were expelled from Spain during the Spanish Inquisition in the late 15th century and many fled to other European countries, the Middle East, and North Africa, taking on local surnames from their new countries of residence. The surname Cofino likely developed over time as a result of this migration and adaptation to new cultures.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cofiño

The meaning and origin of the last name Cofiño

The surname Cofino is of Spanish origin and is believed to be a toponymic surname, derived from the word "cofina" which refers to a small basket or container typically used for carrying goods. It may have been originally used as an occupational surname for someone who made or sold these containers. Another possible origin is from the Arabic word "kufa" which means "rounded container" or "small basket", indicating a similar meaning. The surname Cofino is most commonly found in Spain and is relatively rare, with variations such as Cofinos and Cofina also existing. It is a unique and interesting surname that reflects the ancestral connections to artisanal trades and daily life in historic Spain.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cofiño

The surname Cofino is primarily found in Spain, particularly in the regions of Asturias, Cantabria, and Madrid. It is believed to have originated from the town of Cofino in Asturias, where the surname is most prevalent. The name Cofino may also be found in other Spanish-speaking countries such as Argentina, Mexico, and the United States, where individuals of Spanish descent have migrated. In recent years, the surname has started to spread to other parts of Europe and even to other continents due to increased global mobility and intercultural marriages. Despite its relatively limited geographical distribution, the surname Cofino carries a sense of heritage and regional identity for those who bear it, connecting them to their ancestors and the specific locations where their family history originated.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cofiño

The last name Cofino has several variations and spellings. Some common variations include Cofinus, Cofina, Cofinot, Cofini, and Kofino. These variations may arise due to different regional accents, translations, or misspellings over time. The name Cofino is of Sephardic Jewish origin, often found among families with Spanish or Portuguese heritage. This surname is believed to have originated from the Spanish word "cofín," meaning coffin, possibly suggesting a connection to funeral or burial practices. Over centuries, the spelling and pronunciation of surnames often evolve, leading to the various iterations we see today. Regardless of the spelling, the name Cofino serves as a unique and historical identifier for those who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Cofiño

One of the most famous people with the last name Cofino is Madison Cofino, an American figure skater who has won numerous medals in national and international competitions. Another well-known individual is José Cofino, a prominent Spanish architect known for his innovative and modern designs. Additionally, Maria Cofino is a respected fashion designer who has showcased her collections at major fashion events around the world. These individuals have all achieved great success in their respective fields and have brought recognition to the Cofino name through their talent and hard work.

Genealogical research on the last name Cofiño

The last name Cofino is of Sephardic Jewish origin, with roots in Spain. The name is believed to have originated in the town of Cofino in the province of León. The Cofino family likely descend from Sephardic Jews who were forced to convert to Catholicism during the Spanish Inquisition in the late 15th century. Many Sephardic Jews changed their surnames to assimilate into Christian society, which could explain the presence of the Cofino surname in different countries throughout history. The surname may have variations, such as Cofinas or Cofine, which can be found in different genealogical records. Researching the Cofino family history can provide insight into the migration patterns and cultural assimilation of Sephardic Jews after the Inquisition.

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 : 13 June 2025

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