Last Name De-Freitas

The surname "de Freitas" is of Portuguese origin. It is derived from the Latin word "fratre," meaning "brother." In Portuguese, "de Freitas" translates to "of the brothers" or "from the brothers." It is a patronymic surname, indicating that it was originally given to someone based on the name of their father or an ancestor. The surname is relatively common among people of Portuguese descent, particularly in Portugal, Brazil, and other Portuguese-speaking regions.

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

The meaning and origin of the last name De-Freitas

The surname "de Freitas" originates from Portugal and has a noble origin. The name is derived from the Portuguese word "freire", meaning "knight" or "brother of a knight." This suggests that the original bearers of the surname were associated with knighthood or had a noble title. Over time, the name evolved into "de Freitas," signifying a person of noble lineage.

The surname "de Freitas" was likely used by families who held land or positions of authority during the feudal period in Portugal. These individuals were esteemed for their bravery and chivalry, and their surnames reflected their honorable status. As time passed, the name expanded beyond the noble class and became more common among the general population. Today, people with the surname "de Freitas" can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in countries with Portuguese influence such as Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.

Geographical distribution of the last name De-Freitas

The last name de Freitas has a significant geographical distribution, predominantly found in the Portuguese-speaking countries of Portugal, Brazil, and Cape Verde. In Portugal, it is most commonly found in the northern regions, such as Porto and Braga. The name also has a strong presence in Brazil, particularly in the states of Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, where it has been brought by Portuguese settlers and immigrants. Additionally, Cape Verde, a former Portuguese colony, also has a notable population of people with the last name de Freitas. Outside of these countries, the name can be found in smaller numbers within Portuguese communities in countries like the United States, Canada, and France due to migration and diaspora. The geographical distribution of the last name de Freitas showcases its historical significance and connection to Portuguese culture.

Variants and spellings of the last name De-Freitas

The last name de Freitas can have various spellings and variations depending on regional differences and family preferences. As a Portuguese-origin surname, it commonly retains its original spelling in Portuguese-speaking countries such as Portugal and Brazil. However, when individuals or families migrated to other countries, the name may have been altered to suit local linguistic conventions and pronunciation. Variations and spellings of de Freitas might include variations in the capitalization of letters, such as De Freitas or DeFreitas. Other variations can be seen through the substitution or omission of diacritic marks, resulting in spellings like Defreitas or De Freytas. Additionally, the use of different prepositions or articles may also lead to variations, like Da Freitas or Dos Freitas, particularly in regions heavily influenced by Spanish or other Romance languages. These variations reflect how surnames can adapt over time due to cultural and linguistic differences.

Famous people with the last name De-Freitas

One famous individual with the last name de Freitas is Fernando de Freitas, a Brazilian businessman and philanthropist. He gained recognition as the founder and CEO of MRV Engenharia, one of the largest real estate companies in Latin America. Known for his entrepreneurial skills, de Freitas successfully transformed MRV Engenharia into a leading developer of affordable housing. Additionally, he is a passionate advocate for social housing and has contributed to various charitable initiatives in Brazil. Another notable figure is André de Freitas, a Portuguese soccer player. André had a successful career as a forward, playing for several Portuguese clubs, including Sporting CP, Marítimo, and Braga. He is admired for his goal-scoring ability and has represented Portugal at the international level. Through their achievements, both Fernando and André de Freitas have made notable contributions in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name De-Freitas

The surname de Freitas has its origin in Portugal and derives from the Portuguese word "freitar" meaning "to fry". Research into the genealogy of this last name reveals a rich history that spans several centuries. It is believed that the de Freitas family can be traced back to noble origins, with ties to the Portuguese royal court during the medieval period. The family may have played significant roles in the political and social landscape of Portugal at the time. As the centuries passed, the de Freitas name spread beyond the borders of Portugal, with branches of the family migrating to different parts of the world, such as Brazil, the United States, and other Portuguese-speaking countries. Today, individuals with the last name de Freitas can be found all around the globe, carrying with them a unique heritage and a proud connection to their Portuguese ancestry.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "De-Freitas"
• 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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