Last Name Ferreira-maia

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ferreira-maia

The meaning and origin of the last name Ferreira-maia

The surname Ferreira Maia is of Portuguese origin and is a combination of two separate surnames. Ferreira is a common Portuguese surname that derives from the word "ferreiro" meaning "blacksmith." It is often used to denote the occupation of an ancestor who was a blacksmith. Maia, on the other hand, is a surname of Portuguese and Galician origin derived from the Latin word "magnus" meaning "great" or "big." It is often used to indicate a person hailing from a town named Maia or from a family with a familial connection to that location. Therefore, the combination of Ferreira Maia could potentially indicate a person with ancestral ties to a blacksmith or someone of great importance in the town of Maia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ferreira-maia

The last name Ferreira Maia is most commonly found in Portugal and Brazil. In Portugal, it is distributed throughout the country, with concentrations in the northern regions such as Porto and Braga. In Brazil, the name is particularly prevalent in the state of Minas Gerais, Sao Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, as well as in other regions with significant Portuguese immigration. Due to historical ties between Portugal and Brazil, as well as migration patterns between the two countries, the surname Ferreira Maia has spread to other Portuguese-speaking countries in South America and around the world. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Ferreira Maia reflects the migration patterns and cultural connections between Portugal and its former colonies, particularly Brazil.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ferreira-maia

The last name Ferreira Maia can have several variations and spellings, including Ferreira Maía, Ferreira Maya, Ferreíra Maia, Ferreira Mayya, and Ferreira Maie. These variations may arise due to different regional accents, phonetic pronunciations, or historical influences on the surname. Additionally, the name may also be spelled as Ferreiro Maia, Fereira Maia, Ferria Maia, Ferriera Maia, or Ferreira Maja. These variations in spelling and pronunciation are common in surnames with Portuguese and Brazilian origins, where family names have evolved over time and may have different interpretations. Regardless of the specific spelling, the surname Ferreira Maia remains a prominent and recognizable name in Portuguese-speaking regions.

Famous people with the last name Ferreira-maia

Ferreira Maia is a common Portuguese surname and there are several famous individuals who share this last name. One well-known figure is Tânia Maria Ferreira Maia, a Brazilian politician who served as the Secretary of Justice of Minas Gerais. She is known for her advocacy work in promoting human rights and social justice in the region. Another notable individual is Marcos Ferreira Maia, a prominent architect and urban designer from Brazil. He is known for his innovative and sustainable designs that have won numerous awards and accolades in the field of architecture. Overall, the Ferreira Maia surname is associated with talented and accomplished individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, from politics to architecture.

Genealogical research on the last name Ferreira-maia

The surname Ferreira Maia has roots in Portugal and Brazil, with individuals bearing this name often tracing their ancestry back to these countries. The name likely originated from the combination of the common Portuguese surname Ferreira, which means blacksmith or ironworker, and the Maia, which is a common surname in both Portugal and Brazil with various possible meanings, including "mother" or "midwife". Genealogical research on the Ferreira Maia name may reveal a diverse family tree with connections to different regions and historical periods in both countries. Individuals with this surname may have relatives who were skilled craftsmen, midwives, or held other important roles within their communities. Research on the Ferreira Maia family history could provide insight into the cultural and historical background of the family, shedding light on the unique stories and experiences of its members.