Last Name Lopes

The last name "Lopes" has Portuguese origins. It is derived from the medieval Portuguese word "lopo," which means "wolf." The surname originated as a nickname for someone who exhibited wolf-like qualities, such as ferocity or cunning, or could also be an occupational name referring to someone involved in wolf hunting. Over time, the surname spread to other Portuguese-speaking regions and is relatively common in Brazil, Portugal, and other former Portuguese colonies.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Lopes

The meaning and origin of the last name Lopes

The surname Lopes, also spelled Lopez or Lòpez, has a rich history and varied origins. Primarily associated with Spanish and Portuguese heritage, the surname Lopes is derived from the patronymic form of Lope or Lopes, meaning "wolf." It is believed to have originated from the Germanic name "Hrodulf," composed of the elements "hrod" (renown) and "wulf" (wolf). As the name spread throughout the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages, it assimilated into the local culture and language. The surname Lopes became particularly prominent during the time of the Reconquista, the historical period when Spain and Portugal were reconquering territories from the Moors. Many Lopes families were rewarded with land and titles for their brave military actions in reclaiming the peninsula. Over time, the surname Lopes has spread throughout the world through immigration, resulting in its widespread use today among individuals of Spanish, Portuguese, and Hispanic descent.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lopes

The last name Lopes exhibits a diverse geographical distribution around the world. It is most commonly found in Portugal and Brazil, due to its Portuguese origins. In Portugal, the name is prevalent throughout the country, with larger concentrations in regions such as Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira. In Brazil, a former Portuguese colony, the Lopes surname is one of the most common last names and can be found in almost every state. The name also has a notable presence in other Portuguese-speaking countries, including Angola, Cape Verde, and Mozambique. Additionally, Lopes can be found in significant numbers in other parts of the world, particularly in the United States, where Portuguese immigration has contributed to its popularity. In the U.S., states with larger Portuguese communities, such as Massachusetts, California, and Rhode Island, have higher concentrations of individuals with the Lopes last name. The geographical distribution of the Lopes name reflects both historic and contemporary Portuguese diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lopes

The last name Lopes can have variations and spellings that differ based on different regions and cultural backgrounds. Some common variations include Lopez, Lopéz, Lopès, Lopetz, and Lopess. These variations can be seen in various parts of the world. For example, Lopez is a common spelling found in Spanish-speaking countries and their diaspora, while Lopéz may be more commonly seen in countries with French influence like France, Haiti, or parts of North Africa. Lopès is a variation often associated with Portuguese-speaking countries such as Portugal or Brazil. Lopetz and Lopess, on the other hand, might be unconventional spellings created due to personal choice or regional accents. It is worth noting that surnames are subject to changes and adaptations over time, influenced by historical events, migrations, and language variations, which contribute to the wide range of spellings and variations of the last name Lopes.

Famous people with the last name Lopes

One of the most prominent figures with the last name Lopes is the late Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, a celebrated American rapper, singer, and member of the popular group TLC. Known for her distinctive style and fiery personality, Lisa Lopes achieved massive success in the 1990s with TLC, who became one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. Unfortunately, her life was tragically cut short in 2002. Despite her untimely death, Lisa Lopes left a lasting impact on the music industry and continues to inspire aspiring artists. Additionally, another well-known figure with the last name Lopes is actor Jorge Lopes Ramos, a Portuguese-born performer renowned for his roles in theater, film, and television productions in Portugal. Lopes Ramos has showcased his talent and versatility through his compelling performances, establishing himself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Lopes

The surname Lopes has its origins in the Iberian Peninsula, specifically in Portugal and Spain. This patronymic surname, derived from the given name Lopo, can be traced back to the Middle Ages. The name Lopes indicates a family's affiliation with someone named Lopo or Lopes, with the suffix "-es" denoting "son of Lopo." Over the centuries, various branches of the Lopes family spread throughout different regions, including Brazil, Cape Verde, and the Americas due to exploration, colonization, and migration. Consequently, the surname has experienced some variations in spelling and pronunciation, such as Lopez, Lopéz, Lopesi, or Lopo. Genealogical research on the Lopes family would involve exploring historical records, such as baptismal, marriage, and census documents, as well as utilizing modern resources like DNA testing and online databases to trace lineage and discover relatives across different generations and geographical areas.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Lopes"
• 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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