Last Name De-costa

Learn more about the origin of the last name De-costa

The meaning and origin of the last name De-costa

The surname De Costa originates from the Latin word "costa" which means "rib" or "side." It is believed to have ancient medieval roots in Portugal and Spain, deriving from the word "costa" which refers to someone who lived near a coast or a hill. The surname may have also been used to describe individuals who resided near a ridge or a slope. Over time, the surname De Costa spread to other countries through migration and trade, particularly in regions with a strong historical connection to Portugal and Spain. Today, individuals with the surname De Costa can be found in various parts of the world, often with diverse backgrounds and histories linked to their ancestral origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name De-costa

The last name "De Costa" is of Portuguese and Spanish origin and can be found primarily in areas with historical connections to these countries. The surname is prevalent in Portugal, particularly in regions like Lisbon, Porto, and the Azores Islands. In Spain, it is commonly found in regions such as Galicia, Catalonia, and Andalusia. Due to the historical presence of Portuguese and Spanish explorers and settlers in regions like Brazil, Goa, Macau, and the Philippines, the surname De Costa can also be found in significant numbers in these areas. Additionally, with migration and globalization, individuals with the surname De Costa have dispersed to various countries worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Variants and spellings of the last name De-costa

The last name de Costa may be spelled as Costa, Da Costa, Decosta, or Dacosta. These variations may be used interchangeably depending on cultural or regional preferences. Additionally, it is possible to encounter further variations in spelling due to factors such as immigration, language differences, or historical records. However, the core pronunciation and meaning of the surname typically remain consistent across these different spellings.

Famous people with the last name De-costa

Some of the most famous people with the last name De Costa include Eduardo De Costa, a Brazilian professional footballer who has played for clubs like Flamengo and Corinthians; Miguel De Costa, a Sri Lankan former cricketer who represented the national team in international competitions; and Michelle De Costa, an American actress known for her roles in films such as "The Departed" and "Silver Linings Playbook." Additionally, Maria De Costa was a Portuguese explorer who is credited with discovering various islands in the Pacific Ocean during the 16th century. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on their audiences and admirers.

Genealogical research on the last name De-costa

The surname de Costa is of Portuguese and Spanish origin, derived from the word "costa" meaning "coast" or "rib." It is a toponymic surname, indicating a person who lived near the coast or a geographical feature resembling a rib. Genealogical research on the de Costa surname shows that it is prevalent in Portugal, Spain, and former Portuguese and Spanish colonies such as Brazil and Goa. The de Costa family history may trace back to noble lineage in Portugal and Spain, with variations of the surname found across different regions. Records indicate that the de Costa surname has been documented in historical archives, church registries, and census data, providing a rich source of information for individuals researching their ancestry within the de Costa family.