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Last Name Lema

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What is the origin of the last name Lema?

The last name Lema is of Spanish and Portuguese origin, derived from a medieval occupational name for someone who worked as a scribe or secretary (escribano in Spanish, escrivão in Portuguese). It comes from the Latin word "scriptor" meaning "writer". This surname spread throughout Iberia during the Middle Ages and was later brought to other regions by emigrants.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Lema

The meaning and origin of the last name Lema

The surname Lema is of African origin, specifically from East Africa, particularly among the Ethiopian and Eritrean populations. It is believed to be derived from the Amharic language, where "Lemma" means 'princess' or 'queen'. The name could have been given as a sign of respect or high status in ancient societies. Over time, it has spread beyond its Ethiopian and Eritrean roots, becoming a surname across different African and global communities due to migration and assimilation. It is also an Arabic name meaning 'praise' or 'speech' but the link between this meaning and the African usage of Lema as a surname remains unclear. The name Lema represents a rich cultural heritage, symbolizing royalty and esteem in its African context.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lema

The last name Lema has its origins predominantly in Spain and Portugal, with significant concentrations also found in Equatorial Guinea, due to historical connections between these regions. In Spain, the highest frequency of the surname can be traced to the regions of Galicia, Asturias, and Cantabria, suggesting a potential Basque or Celtic origin. In Portugal, Lema is most common in the northern regions, especially Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro. In Equatorial Guinea, the name is particularly prevalent in the capital city of Malabo and the region of Bioko Norte, reflecting a strong African diaspora influence. The name can also be found in other parts of the world where Spanish or Portuguese descendants reside, such as the Americas, specifically Cuba, Mexico, and the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lema

The surname Lema can be found with various spellings and variations worldwide. Some common spelling variations include Lemaa, Lemm, Leyma, Lemos, Leima, Lymah, Leymah, Leyme, Leymea, Lima, Limon, Lemmon, and Leman among others. These differences in spelling can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors during migration, or personal preference. The origin of the name is primarily of African descent, particularly in countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. However, it may also be found among populations of Spanish or Portuguese heritage due to similarities with the surname Lima. Regardless of spelling, the name Lema remains a unique and significant identifier for many individuals around the globe.

Famous people with the last name Lema

Notable individuals with the surname Lema include:

1. Yvonne Lema (born 1962), a Democratic Republic of Congo politician who served as Minister of Health from 2008 to 2012 and again from 2016 to 2017.

2. Alphonse Lema Mwambipopo (born 1959), a Tanzanian politician who has been the Member of Parliament for Tarime Urban since 2010.

3. Georges Lemaître (1894–1966), a Belgian priest and scientist known as the "father of the Big Bang theory." He was also a professor of physics at the Catholic University of Leuven.

4. Eloi Lema (born 1983), a professional footballer who has played for clubs such as Standard Liège, RSC Anderlecht, and Middlesbrough FC.

5. D'Artanyan Lema (born 1990), a Haitian-American rapper and record producer known by his stage name, Kodak Black. He gained recognition with the release of his debut album "Institution" in 2016.

Genealogical research on the last name Lema

The surname Lema originates from various regions, most notably Spain and Africa. In Spain, the name is of Basque origin, with roots traced back to the province of Guipúzcoa. It is derived from the word "lema," meaning "place" or "town." In Africa, particularly in countries like Angola, Mozambique, and Equatorial Guinea, the surname Lema is commonly found among Bantu-speaking peoples, where it may represent a personal name or title. The spelling variations of the name include Lemas, Leyma, and Lemah, reflecting regional linguistic differences. Notable figures with this surname include José Ramón Lema, a Spanish politician, and Pedro Lemba, a former Prime Minister of Angola. Genealogical research suggests that the name's dispersal across the globe is due to historical events such as colonization and migration, contributing to its diverse modern-day presence in various nations.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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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.

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