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Last Name Nova

What is the origin of the last name Nova?

The surname "Nova" is of Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese origin. In Italian and Spanish, "nova" means "new," likely indicating that the surname was given to someone who was a newcomer or a new arrival in a particular place. It is also possible that the surname could be derived from a place name like "Nova" or "Novara" in Italy. In Portuguese, "Nova" is a common surname and could refer to someone from a place named Nova or have a similar meaning related to something new or fresh. Overall, the exact origin of the surname "Nova" may vary depending on the country and region where it first emerged.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Nova

The meaning and origin of the last name Nova

The surname Nova has origins in various cultures and languages. In Latin, "nova" means new or fresh, suggesting that the surname may have been given to someone who was considered innovative or a newcomer to a particular area or profession. In Italian and Spanish, Nova can also be a topographical name for someone who lived near a newly built town or village. Additionally, Nova is a common surname in Portuguese-speaking countries, where it may have derived from the word for "new" or "newly arrived." Overall, the surname Nova is likely to have originated as a descriptive or locational name, reflecting traits or locations associated with something new or recent. Today, individuals with the surname Nova can be found across the world, particularly in countries with Latin, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese influences.

Geographical distribution of the last name Nova

The last name Nova is most commonly found in Brazil, particularly in the northeastern region of the country. It is also a relatively common surname in Colombia and Mexico. In Europe, the surname Nova is prevalent in Spain and Portugal, with smaller populations in Italy and France. The name is less common in North America, with small pockets of Nova families in the United States and Canada. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Nova is concentrated in Latin American countries, reflecting its origins in the Spanish and Portuguese languages. The name may also have variations in different countries, such as Novak or Novák in Eastern Europe, but the basic root of "Nova" remains consistent across various regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Nova

The last name Nova can be spelled various ways, including Novoa, Novak, and Novack. Other variations and spellings may include Nová, Nováková, and Novakoski. Additionally, the name may be spelled as Novacek, Novelli, and Novin. Other potential variations of Nova could include Novicio, Novy, and Novotny. Depending on the region or country of origin, the last name Nova may have different spellings or accents, such as Nováková in Czech or Novoa in Spanish. These variations all stem from the original meaning of "nova," which is Latin for "new." Therefore, the last name Nova and its various spellings may be found among individuals of different cultural backgrounds and linguistic heritages.

Famous people with the last name Nova

One famous person with the last name Nova is Angélica María Hartman Ortiz, better known simply as Angélica María. Born in 1944 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Angélica María is a Mexican actress and singer who has had a successful career in both film and television. She is often referred to as "La Novia de Mexico" (The Bride of Mexico) due to her widespread popularity in the country. Another notable figure with the last name Nova is Ivan Nova, a Dominican professional baseball player who has pitched for several Major League Baseball teams including the New York Yankees and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Nova is known for his strong fastball and curveball, as well as his consistency on the mound. Both Angélica María and Ivan Nova have made a lasting impact in their respective fields and remain influential figures in popular culture.

Genealogical research on the last name Nova

The surname Nova is of Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish origin, derived from the Latin word "novus," meaning new. It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was new to a particular area or community. Variants of the surname Nova include Novak, Novaes, and Novella. The earliest recorded instances of the surname Nova date back to the 14th century in Italy, particularly in the regions of Tuscany and Sicily. Over time, families with the surname Nova spread to other parts of Europe and eventually to the Americas. Genealogical research on the surname Nova may reveal connections to prominent figures in history, as well as insight into the migration patterns and cultural influences of individuals bearing this surname. Today, individuals with the surname Nova can be found in countries around the world, continuing to carry on the legacy of their ancestors.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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