Last Name Olivo

Learn more about the origin of the last name Olivo

The meaning and origin of the last name Olivo

The surname Olivo originates from Italy, specifically Sicily, where it is one of the most common surnames. It derives from the Latin word "oliva," which means olive tree or olive oil. In ancient times, olive trees were highly valuable due to their fruits providing essential food, oil for lighting and cooking, as well as medicinal purposes. The name Olivo could have been given to someone who lived near an olive grove, worked with olives, or was known for some characteristic that reminded others of the strong and enduring nature of the olive tree. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname have varied in different regions and languages, such as Olivieri, Oliveri, and Oliveira (Portuguese), but all share a common origin in the Italian "Olivo."

Geographical distribution of the last name Olivo

The surname Olivo has its origins in Spain and Portugal, where it is one of the most common last names, particularly in regions such as Andalusia, Valencia, Extremadura, Castile-La Mancha, Galicia, and the Azores and Madeira archipelagos in Portugal. The name spread to other countries through immigration, notably to South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Chile. In these countries, Olivo is among the most popular surnames due to large-scale Spanish colonization and subsequent immigration waves. Additionally, it can also be found in significant numbers in Mexico, Cuba, and other parts of Central America and the Caribbean, reflecting the historical connections between these regions and Spain. Outside of Latin America, there are Olivo families in the United States, especially in areas with large Latino populations such as California, Texas, Florida, and New York.

Variants and spellings of the last name Olivo

The surname Olivo, of Spanish origin, has several variations and spellings worldwide. Common English variants include Olivero, Olivere, Olivarius, Olivier, and Oliff. Other variations may be found in different cultures and countries, such as the Italian Olivieri, Olivares, and Olevario; the Portuguese Oliveira, Oliveria, and Olívia; and the Catalan Oliva and Oliver. These spellings often result from phonetic changes or regional dialects. Additionally, there might be slight variations due to transcription errors during immigration or assimilation into a new culture. It's interesting to note that despite these differences, people with this surname may share ancestral roots or cultural connections.

Famous people with the last name Olivo

Notable individuals bearing the surname Olivo include:

1. Jorge Olivo (born 1962), Uruguayan football coach who played as a goalkeeper and was part of Uruguay's national team during the 1986 FIFA World Cup.

2. Juan Carlos Fresnadillo Olivo (born 1971), Spanish film director, screenwriter, and producer known for directing 28 Weeks Later and Intruders.

3. Manuel Olivares Olivo (1907-1964), Mexican actor who appeared in numerous films during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema.

4. Eduardo Oliveira de Olivo (born 1953), Brazilian economist and politician, serving as the Governor of Paraná state from 2019 to 2022.

5. Juan Olivo (1937-2022), Argentine actor, producer, and screenwriter who was a prominent figure in Argentine theater and film.

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, from sports to entertainment and politics, demonstrating the versatility of the Olivo surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Olivo

The surname Olivo originates from Spain, specifically the regions of Andalusia and Valencia. It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name "Oliver," which itself comes from the Old French "olifère" meaning "olive tree bearer." The earliest known records of the Olivo family date back to the 15th century in Spain, where several branches were established across the country. Over time, members of the Olivo family migrated to other parts of Europe and later to America due to religious and economic reasons. In Italy, particularly in Sicily, there are significant numbers of the Olivo family. The spread of the surname is also evident in Latin America, notably in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico, where it arrived with Spanish colonizers. Today, the Olivo family can be found in various countries around the world, retaining a rich history and cultural identity.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Olivo"
• 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