Last Name Mora

The last name "Mora" is of Italian and Spanish origin. In Italian, it is derived from the Latin word "mora," meaning "mulberry." Mulberry trees and their fruits were historically important in Italy, and the surname might have originally been given to individuals living near or working with mulberry trees. In Spanish, "Mora" is a locational surname, derived from places with the name "Mora" in Spain. It could also have a toponymic origin referring to someone from a place with the word "mora" in its name. Overall, the exact origin and meaning of the surname "Mora" may vary depending on the region and specific family history.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mora

The meaning and origin of the last name Mora

The surname Mora has several possible meanings and origins. One prominent origin is Italian, where it is derived from the word "mora," meaning "mulberry." It is believed to have been a topographic or occupational name given to individuals who lived or worked near mulberry trees. Mulberry trees were primarily cultivated for their fruit, leaves, or wood, and this surname may have denoted someone involved in sericulture or silk production. Another potential origin is Spanish, where Mora is derived from the term "moro," meaning "Moor" or "dark-skinned." This suggests that the surname may have been given to individuals who had ethnic or cultural connections to North Africa or who had a darker complexion. Additionally, Mora can also be found as a surname in other cultures and languages, including Catalan and Portuguese, but with varying meanings and origin stories.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mora

The last name Mora is relatively common and has a widespread geographical distribution. It is primarily found in several countries in Latin America, particularly in Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Ecuador. In Mexico, the last name Mora is most commonly found in the central states, including Mexico City, Jalisco, and Morelos. Costa Rica has a significant concentration of individuals with the last name Mora, particularly in the provinces of San José and Alajuela. In Colombia, the last name Mora is prevalent along the country's Caribbean coast and in the central region, including the capital city of Bogotá. Ecuador also has a notable number of individuals with the last name Mora, scattered across different provinces. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the last name Mora can also be found among diaspora communities in the United States, particularly in states with larger Latin American populations such as California and Texas. Overall, the last name Mora has a diverse geographical distribution, predominantly concentrated in Latin American countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mora

The last name Mora may have several variations and spellings depending on different regions, cultures, or personal preferences. Some common variations include Morea, Morra, Moro, Moras, and Morrales. These alternatives can be attributed to factors such as migration, historical changes, or phonetic differences in various languages. In Spain, where the name originated, it is spelled Mora. However, as families moved to different countries over the centuries, the spelling often adapted to suit the local language or conventions. For instance, in Italy, the name is sometimes spelled Morra, while in Latin America, variations like Moras or Morales are also encountered. The name's pronunciation might also lead to slight spelling variances. While the exact spelling may differ, the underlying family connections remain the same. These variations add to the richness and diversity of family histories and demonstrate the continual evolution of surnames throughout generations.

Famous people with the last name Mora

Famous individuals with the last name Mora encompass various fields, showcasing talent, expertise, and accomplishments in their respective domains. In the realm of literature, Ana María Matute Mora stands as an esteemed Spanish novelist who received numerous accolades, including Spain's National Prize for Literature. In the field of art, Francisco Mora, an eminent Mexican painter and muralist, played a significant role in the Mexican Renaissance movement. Transitioning to sports, Mariano Moraes, commonly known as Mariano "No Mercy" Moraes, made a name for himself as a Brazilian mixed martial artist, winning titles and achieving success in organizations like Bellator MMA. Furthermore, Norma Mora, a renowned Venezuelan actress, became an influential figure in Latin American cinema, delivering exceptional performances throughout her career. These notable individuals bearing the surname Mora have left lasting impressions in their respective domains, enriching their fields with their talent and dedication.

Genealogical research on the last name Mora

The last name Mora is of Spanish and Italian origin. It is derived from the Latin word "morus," which means "mulberry tree." Research indicates that the surname Mora has a strong presence in various regions, including Spain, Italy, and Latin America. In Spain, it is commonly found in the regions of Andalusia, Catalonia, and Valencia. The Italian variation of the name, "Morra," appears to have originated primarily in the southern part of the country, particularly in Campania and Sicily. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Mora have migrated to different parts of the world, resulting in further diversity of the name's distribution. Genealogical records show that the Mora family name has been passed down through many generations, allowing individuals to trace their ancestry and establish connections with relatives across different continents. The Mora surname continues to be an integral part of various communities, representing a rich historical legacy.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Mora"
• 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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends