Last Name Manzano

The surname Manzano is of Spanish origin. It derives from the word "manzana," which means apple in English. In Medieval Spain, a common method for creating surnames was to use topographical features, occupations, or personal characteristics as a basis. In this case, the name likely referred to someone who lived near an apple tree or orchard. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name may have varied due to regional dialects and historical influences.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Manzano

The meaning and origin of the last name Manzano

The surname Manzano is of Spanish origin, derived from the word "manzana" which means apple in English. This surname was often given to individuals who lived near an apple tree or orchard, as was common with many occupational and topographic surnames during the Middle Ages in Spain. Over time, as families migrated and expanded across regions, the spelling and pronunciation of the name may have varied slightly, but it generally retained its connection to the word "apple." Today, the Manzano surname is common not only in Spain but also among Spanish-speaking populations around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Manzano

The surname Manzano is primarily distributed across various regions in Spain, with a significant concentration in the autonomous communities of Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and León, Galicia, and Navarra. It is also found in other parts of the country, albeit less frequently. Beyond Spain, smaller populations bearing this surname can be found in Latin American countries such as Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Colombia, and Argentina, which have large Spanish-speaking communities. The name Manzano is of Old Spanish origin, meaning "little apple tree", reflecting its prevalence in the Iberian Peninsula where apple trees are abundant.

Variants and spellings of the last name Manzano

The surname Manzano has various spellings and pronunciations across different regions and cultures. Some common variations include: Manzana, Manzano, Manchan, Manchon, Manzoni (Italian), Manzonne (French), and Manchão (Portuguese). These variations may stem from regional dialects, transcription errors, or assimilation into other languages. In Spanish-speaking countries, the surname can mean "little apple tree" due to its etymology derived from manzana, the word for apple in Spanish. It is important to note that the correct spelling and pronunciation of a name can vary based on individual preference or regional custom, and it is always best to ask an individual about their preferred usage.

Famous people with the last name Manzano

Notable individuals with the surname Manzano include:

1. Pedro Manzano Brochero (1894-1972), an Argentine Roman Catholic priest, known for his charitable works and his devotion to the poor.

2. Miguel Ángel Manzano (born 1960), a Spanish professional footballer who played as a defender, winning two La Liga titles with Real Madrid.

3. José Antonio Manzano Gómez (born 1948), a Spanish poet and writer, whose work has been recognized with numerous awards in Spain and Latin America.

4. Juan Carlos Manzano (born 1964), a Mexican athlete, who won the gold medal in the men's 110m hurdles at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona.

5. Ana Manzano (born 1979), a Spanish actress and model, best known for her role in the popular Spanish television series "Cuéntame cómo pasó."

These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields of sports, literature, and entertainment, reflecting the diverse talents within the Manzano family.

Genealogical research on the last name Manzano

The surname Manzano originates from the Spanish language, meaning "little apple tree" or "apple grove". The name has been recorded in Spain since at least the Middle Ages, with early records showing a family named Manzano living in Castile in the 14th century. Over time, the Manzano family expanded throughout Spain, primarily settling in regions such as Galicia, Asturias, and Cantabria due to their fertile land and abundant apple orchards. The name also has a significant presence in Latin America, particularly in countries with large Spanish populations like Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Notable individuals with the Manzano surname include Spanish writer Manuel Antonio Manzanares y de la Manzana, Mexican tennis player Gisela Dulko Manzuro, and Cuban-American boxer Yuriorkis Gamboa Manzano.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Manzano"
• 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 June 2025

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