What is the origin of the last name Miro?

The surname Miro has its origins in multiple countries, and it can be traced back to various ethnic groups and time periods. In Spain, it is derived from the medieval given name "Miri," which meant "admirable" or "worthy of admiration." This name was common among Jewish families in Catalonia before the 1492 expulsion. In Italy, Miro originates from the personal name Mirone, a diminutive form of Amorone (a form of Amore, meaning love). It also appears in Croatia, where it is often associated with the Slavic name "Miron." The Irish surname Meehan can be Anglicized as Miro. In Ireland, this name derives from the Old Gaelic "Midhe" or "Meith," which means "center" or "middle." It is essential to note that the origins of a last name can often be complex and intertwined with history, culture, and migration patterns.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Miro

The meaning and origin of the last name Miro

The surname Miro is of Spanish origin, derived from the word "mundo" which means 'world' in English. This name was often given to children born on Christmas Eve or New Year's Day, symbolizing the new world or the universe that had been brought into existence by Christ's birth. The most famous bearer of this surname is Joan Miró, a renowned Spanish painter known for his unique surrealistic style. The name Miro can also be found in other Spanish-speaking countries like Argentina and Mexico. It's a name that carries the rich cultural heritage of Spain, with its roots deeply embedded in both the religious and artistic traditions of the country.

Geographical distribution of the last name Miro

The surname Miro has its origins in Spain, particularly in the Catalonia region, and is most commonly found among the population there. It is also present in other parts of Spain, such as Aragon, Castile, and the Balearic Islands, although less frequently. Outside of Spain, the distribution of the name Miro becomes more scattered. In America, it can be found among Spanish-speaking communities in countries like the United States, Cuba, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. It is also present in France, particularly among the Pyrenean Catalans, due to historical migration between Spain and France. Additionally, there are Miro families in some parts of South America, primarily where Spanish influence is strong, such as Argentina, Chile, and Peru. The name Miro can also be found in other countries with significant Spanish or Catalan immigration, such as Canada and Australia.

Variants and spellings of the last name Miro

The surname Miro has multiple variants and spellings across different languages and regions. Some common versions include: Miroy (Russian), Miero (Portuguese), Miróo (Arabic), Mīro (Latvian), Mîrò (Italian diacritic), Mierau (German), Mirou (French), Myrow (Polish) and Merow (Dutch). The name originates from the Old Spanish "mirar," meaning "to look" or "to observe." In the context of art, it is most famously associated with Joan Miró, a Catalan painter who was a significant figure in Surrealism. However, the spelling and pronunciation can vary depending on cultural and regional influences, making it an intriguing surname with diverse origins.

Famous people with the last name Miro

Notable individuals sharing the surname Miro include:

1. Joan Miró (1893-1983), a renowned Spanish painter and sculptor, considered one of the greatest artists of the 20th century, known for his surrealist works.

2. Penélope Cruz Sánchez, born in 1974, is a Spanish actress with an extensive career in film, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

3. Pep Mingo Miró (1957-), a Spanish footballer who played as a defender for clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid, winning numerous titles during his professional career.

4. Pere Miquel i Clavell, also known as Pep Claramunt (1863-1929), was a Catalan poet and playwright, considered one of the most important figures in modern Catalan literature.

5. Maria Teresa Miro (1750-1845), an Italian opera singer of Spanish origin, known for her roles in operas by composers such as Mozart and Rossini during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Genealogical research on the last name Miro

The surname Miro originates from the Basque region, specifically in the province of Guipuzcoa, Spain. It is a toponymic name derived from various locations that bear the name "Miro" throughout the Basque Country, indicating that the original bearer of this surname may have lived near one of these places. The most common theory suggests that the name is associated with a village called Miroseitz in Guipuzcoa. The name has been documented since at least the 12th century, and it is believed to have spread through migration during the medieval period, especially after the Reconquista when many Basque families settled in other parts of Spain and Europe. Notable individuals with this surname include Joan Miro, a renowned Spanish artist known for his surrealist paintings, and Josep Lluis Miro, a former President of Catalonia. The Miro family is also prominent in the Basque Country in politics, art, and business.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

NomOrigine Team
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 :

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