NomOrigine Background

Last Name Guedes

What is the origin of the last name Guedes?

The surname "Guedes" is of Portuguese origin. It is derived from the word "Godo," which was a term used to describe the Visigoths, a Germanic tribe that invaded the Iberian Peninsula in the 5th century. Over time, the name "Guedes" became associated with noble families in Portugal. Today, it is a common surname in Portugal and can also be found in countries with Portuguese influence, such as Brazil.

Please wait, data loading. It may take 1 minute or 2...

Learn more about the origin of the last name Guedes

The meaning and origin of the last name Guedes

The surname Guedes is of Portuguese origin and is believed to have originated from the Old French word "guede" which means "guide" or "leader." It is thought to have been a surname given to someone who was a guide or a leader in their community. The Guedes family is likely to have held a position of importance or authority in their local area. The surname Guedes can be found primarily in Portugal and Brazil, where it is a relatively common surname. The name may also have variations such as Guede, Guedez, or Guesde. Today, individuals with the surname Guedes may still hold positions of leadership or influence within their communities, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Guedes

The surname Guedes is most commonly found in Portugal and Brazil. In Portugal, it is particularly prevalent in the northern regions such as Porto and Braga. The name is derived from the medieval Portuguese word "guedes," meaning "son of Gueda." In Brazil, the surname is widespread due to the country's historical connection to Portugal through colonization. It is found in various regions across Brazil, with a significant concentration in cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The name may also be found in other Portuguese-speaking countries such as Angola and Mozambique. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Guedes reflects the migration patterns of Portuguese settlers and their descendants across different parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Guedes

The last name Guedes has several variations and spellings depending on the region and cultural background of the individual. Some common variations include Guede, Guedez, Guedês, Gudez, Guedis, and Guedez. These variations may be a result of migration, translation errors, or changes in pronunciation over time. In Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil and Portugal, the name is most commonly spelled as Guedes. However, in Spanish-speaking countries, it may be spelled as Guede or Gudez. Regardless of the spelling, the name Guedes is believed to have originated from the Latin word "vadum," meaning ford or shallow water. This surname is thought to have originally been a locational name referring to someone who lived near a shallow stream or river crossing.

Famous people with the last name Guedes

One famous person with the last name Guedes is Bernardo Guedes, a Brazilian footballer who plays as a winger for Valencia CF. Known for his speed, skill, and ability to score goals, Guedes has become a prominent player in both the Spanish La Liga and the Portuguese national team. Another well-known figure with the surname Guedes is Gabriel Guedes, a popular Brazilian gospel singer and songwriter. With a devoted following in his home country and abroad, Gabriel Guedes is known for his uplifting and inspirational music that has touched the hearts of many. Both Bernardo and Gabriel Guedes have made significant impacts in their respective fields and continue to be admired by fans around the world.

Genealogical research on the last name Guedes

The surname Guedes is of Portuguese origin and is derived from the Latin word 'Gaudi' meaning 'joy' or 'happiness'. It is believed to have been used as a nickname for someone who was known for their cheerful and lively personality. The Guedes family has a long and rich history, with records dating back to medieval times in Portugal. Many prominent figures have carried the surname Guedes, including military leaders, politicians, and artists. Through genealogical research, it is possible to trace the Guedes lineage back several generations, uncovering connections to influential families and historical events. Today, individuals with the last name Guedes can be found all over the world, continuing to uphold the legacy of their ancestors through their achievements and contributions to society.

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 : 11 April 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names

Gueant (Last name)

surnames > gueant

The last name "Gueant" is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "geant," which means "giant" or "tall." The surname may have originally been used as a nickname f...

Guedi (Last name)

surnames > guedi

I'm sorry, but I couldn't find any specific information on the origin of the last name "Guedi." It is possible that it could have various origins depending on the specific region o...

Guedouar (Last name)

surnames > guedouar

The last name "Guedouar" is of Arabic origin, specifically from North Africa. It is derived from the Arabic word "ghadi" which means "to be present" or "to exist".

Gueen (Last name)

surnames > gueen

The last name "Gueen" is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "gueux" which means "beggars" or "vagabonds." The surname may have originally been a nickname for ...

Guefrech (Last name)

surnames > guefrech

The last name Guefrech is of Arabic origin. It is derived from the Arabic word "ghafir," which means "to cover or forgive." This surname may have originally indicated someone who w...

Guego (Last name)

surnames > guego

The last name "Guego" does not appear to have a distinct origin or meaning. It is possible that it could be a variant or variation of a different surname, as surnames often evolve ...

Gueguen (Last name)

surnames > gueguen

The last name "Gueguen" is of French origin. It is derived from the personal name "Guegen," which is a diminutive form of the Germanic name "Wigand." The name "Wigand" itself is a ...

Guelet (Last name)

surnames > guelet

The last name "Guelet" is of French origin. It is derived from the word "gouler," which means throat or neck in French. This suggests that the last name "Guelet" may have originall...

Gueli (Last name)

surnames > gueli

The last name "Gueli" is of Italian origin. It is a surname that likely originated from the Italian first name "Angelo," which means "angel" in English. Over time, the surname may ...

Guelib (Last name)

surnames > guelib

The surname "Guelib" has its origin in Turkey. It is a Turkish surname that is predominantly found in the regions of Anatolia.

Gueliz (Last name)

surnames > gueliz

The surname Gueliz is of Berber origin, specifically from the Amazigh people of North Africa. The name is derived from the Berber word "agellid" which means warrior or brave. It is...

Guellai (Last name)

surnames > guellai

The origin of the last name "Guellai" is Arabic, specifically from North Africa. It is a common surname in countries like Algeria and Tunisia. The name may have various meanings or...

Guelli (Last name)

surnames > guelli

The origin and meaning of the last name "Guelli" is not clear or well-documented. It does not appear to have a specific origin in any particular country or culture. It is possible ...

Guellil (Last name)

surnames > guellil

The last name Guellil is of Berber origin, specifically from the Kabyle ethnic group in Algeria. It is believed to be derived from the Kabyle word "iḍ-ueil" which means "goat her...

Guelmami (Last name)

surnames > guelmami

The last name "Guelmami" is likely of Tunisian or North African origin. It is possible that it is derived from the Berber or Arabic languages, as these are common languages spoken ...