Last Name Nogal

The surname Nogal is of Spanish and Portuguese origin. It is derived from the Old Occitan word "nogal" meaning "walnut tree," reflecting its usage as a topographic name for someone who lived by or near a walnut grove, or a nickname for someone with a characteristic resemblance to the nut, such as a sturdy person. The surname is also found in other Latin-speaking regions and has been anglicized to Nojal, Novell, and Nugal among others in different parts of the world due to migration and assimilation.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Nogal

The meaning and origin of the last name Nogal

The surname Nogal is of Spanish origin, derived from the Old Occitan word "nougal" which means "walnut tree." This surname was typically given to someone who lived near or worked with walnut trees. The name may have also been used as a metaphorical reference, such as a strong, resilient person being compared to a walnut tree. The use of natural elements and objects as surnames is common in Spanish-speaking cultures, where surnames are often patronymic (derived from the father's name) or topographical (indicating the place of origin). The popularity of the surname Nogal can be traced back to regions of Spain such as Castile and Aragon, where walnut trees are abundant. Today, individuals with the surname Nogal can be found in various countries across the world, particularly those with significant Spanish populations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Nogal

The surname Nogal is predominantly distributed across Spain, particularly in the regions of Castile-La Mancha, Aragon, Catalonia, and Valencia, which suggests its historical origins from these areas. Additionally, substantial populations bearing the name can also be found in Mexico, Argentina, Cuba, and other Spanish-speaking countries in Central and South America, indicative of emigration patterns during the colonial era. Smaller groups of Nogals reside in parts of Italy, particularly in the region of Tuscany, possibly stemming from a historical connection to Spanish rule or migration. In the United States, concentrations can be found primarily along the southwestern border states where Mexican immigration has been historically significant. The global dispersion of the surname Nogal is reflective of Spanish colonization and subsequent migration waves, primarily to the Americas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Nogal

The surname Nogal has several variations and spellings across different countries. Some common variants include Noghal, Nohgal, Nojal, Noghál, Nohgall, and Nokhal. In Spanish-speaking regions, it is most commonly spelled as Nogal, which originates from the Spanish word for walnut tree ("nogal"). Additionally, there are variations based on regional dialects or phonetic pronunciation differences, such as Nojal in parts of Spain and Nohgal in certain regions of Argentina. It is important to note that the correct spelling can depend on the specific family lineage and historical migration patterns, making it essential to research the specific origin when tracing genealogy.

Famous people with the last name Nogal

Notable individuals with the last name Nogal include:

1. Carlos Alberto Nogal (1948- ), a Mexican economist and former Governor of the Bank of Mexico, who served from 2000 to 2006.

2. Daniela Nogal (1985- ), a Mexican actress known for her roles in TV series such as "La Rosa de Guadalupe" and "El Señor de los Cielos."

3. Juan Nogales (1904-1976), a Mexican art historian, archaeologist, and museographer, who was instrumental in the preservation of Mexico's cultural heritage.

4. Pedro Jose Pablo Nogal (1835-1891), also known as Pedrito Nogal, a Costa Rican military officer and politician who served as President of Costa Rica from 1877 to 1882.

5. Sergio Nogal (1940- ), a Mexican journalist and author, recognized for his work in investigative journalism. He is the founder of Proceso magazine.

These individuals have made significant contributions in various fields including economics, acting, archaeology, politics, and journalism.

Genealogical research on the last name Nogal

The surname Nogal originates from the Spanish and Portuguese language, where it means "walnut tree." It is believed to have been first used as a hereditary surname in medieval Spain during the Middle Ages when families took on occupational or geographical names to distinguish themselves from others.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Nogal was in the Kingdom of Galicia, northwestern Spain, around the 13th century. Over time, the name spread throughout the Iberian Peninsula and eventually reached other parts of Europe, including Portugal, France, and Italy, due to migration and colonization.

During the late 15th and early 16th centuries, many individuals with the surname Nogal emigrated from Spain and Portugal to South America, particularly Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico, as a result of the Spanish and Portuguese colonization efforts in those regions. Today, the name Nogal can be found in various countries, but it is most commonly associated with Hispanic populations due to its historical roots in Spain and Portugal. Genealogical research on the surname Nogal reveals rich cultural heritage and a fascinating journey through time and continents.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Nogal"
• 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 : 17 June 2025

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