Last Name Icaza

The last name "Icaza" originates from the Basque region in Spain. The surname is derived from the Basque word "gazta" meaning "gorge" or "ravine". Over time, the name evolved into "Icaza" and became a common surname in the Spanish-speaking world.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Icaza

The meaning and origin of the last name Icaza

The surname Icaza is of Spanish origin and is believed to have originated from the Basque region of Spain. It is thought to be a habitational name derived from the Basque word "ika" meaning fish, and the suffix "-za" denoting a place. This suggests that the surname may have originally been given to people who lived near a body of water or were involved in fishing activities. Over time, the surname Icaza spread to other Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Latin America, through migration and colonization. Today, individuals with the surname Icaza can be found worldwide, with variations in spelling and pronunciation depending on the region and family lineage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Icaza

The surname Icaza is of Spanish origin and is most commonly found in the countries of Ecuador, Panama, and Spain. In Ecuador, the surname is particularly prevalent in the provinces of Guayas and Pichincha. In Panama, it is most commonly found in the Panama Province. In Spain, the surname is distributed throughout the country, with concentrations in the regions of the Basque Country, Catalonia, and Andalusia. Outside of these countries, the surname Icaza can also be found in smaller numbers in other parts of Latin America and the United States, particularly in regions with historical ties to Spain and its colonial legacy. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Icaza reflects its Spanish origins and the historical migration patterns of Spanish-speaking populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Icaza

The last name Icaza can also be spelled as Ikaza, Ikassa, Ycaza, Ykaza, and Ikaça. These variations may be due to regional differences, phonetic interpretations, or historical spelling conventions. The surname Icaza is of Spanish origin and is believed to have originated from the Basque region of Spain. It is a relatively uncommon surname, but it may still be found in various Spanish-speaking countries around the world. The different spellings of Icaza demonstrate the fluidity of language and the evolution of surnames over time.

Famous people with the last name Icaza

Some of the most famous people with the last name Icaza include Jorge Icaza, an Ecuadorian writer best known for his novel "Huasipungo," which deals with the struggles of indigenous people in Ecuador. Another notable figure is Inés Icaza, a Panamanian actress and singer who has appeared in various television series and movies. Additionally, Ricardo Icaza, a Panamanian politician who served as the Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS) from 1956 to 1968, is also well-known. The Icaza family has left a significant impact in the fields of literature, entertainment, and politics in Latin America.

Genealogical research on the last name Icaza

The surname Icaza is of Spanish origin and is believed to have originated from the Basque region of Spain. It is a toponymic surname derived from the Basque word "ika," meaning fish, and the suffix "-za," indicating a place or location. The earliest known records of the Icaza surname date back to the medieval period in Spain. Over time, the surname spread to Latin American countries such as Ecuador, Panama, and Mexico, as well as the Philippines and the United States. Genealogical research on the Icaza surname may reveal a connection to noble families in Spain or notable individuals in Latin American history. It is important to consult church records, census data, and other historical documents to trace the lineage of the Icaza family accurately.

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