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Last Name Ordovas

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What is the origin of the last name Ordovas?

The surname Ordovas is of Spanish origin. It derives from the medieval occupational name for a maker or seller of armor (Spanish: armadura), from the Latin word "armatura." The name can also be found in Portugal, where it may have a slightly different etymology. In both countries, surnames were often adopted to identify a specific family or profession.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ordovas

The meaning and origin of the last name Ordovas

The surname Ordovas is of Spanish origin, specifically from the northwestern region of Galicia. It is derived from the occupational name "ordovés" or "ordevex", meaning "one who trades in wine". This surname was given to individuals who were involved in the production and distribution of wine, a significant industry in Galicia due to its vineyards and winemaking traditions. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different regions, variations of the name such as Ordóñez, Ordoveza, or Orduña may have emerged. The popularity of the name Ordovas can be attributed to its association with this important profession and the cultural heritage of Galicia. Today, the surname is common across Spain and its diaspora.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ordovas

The surname Ordovas has its origins in the Iberian Peninsula, specifically in the region of Galicia, Spain. It is most prevalent in this northwestern region, particularly in the provinces of A Coruña and Lugo where it represents a significant portion of the population. Historically, Galicia has been characterized by a high degree of endogamy, or marriage within the same social group, which may contribute to the concentration of the name in this area. However, due to emigration from Galicia over the last few centuries, especially during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Ordovas surname can also be found in other parts of Spain and in various countries around the world, notably Portugal, the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. In these locations, they often form part of the Galician diaspora communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ordovas

The surname Ordovas has several variations and spellings due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common versions include:

* Ordoñez (Spanish)
* Ordóñez (Castilian Spanish)
* Ordóñes (Old Spanish)
* Orendoz (Galician-Portuguese)
* Ordonne (French)
* Ordovás (Catalan)

These variations can also be found in different countries, including Spain, Portugal, France, and the United States. The name is of Basque origin and likely derives from a place name containing the element "ordo," meaning "wealth" or "power." It's important to note that the spelling of surnames can vary widely even within the same family due to factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors, and personal preference.

Famous people with the last name Ordovas

The Ordovas surname has been associated with notable figures across various fields. In the realm of sports, Raúl Ordóñez Ordóñez, a professional tennis player from Spain, reached the top 30 in the ATP rankings in singles and doubles during his career. In the world of visual arts, Juan Manuel Ordóñez (born 1954), a Spanish cartoonist and caricaturist, is best known for his work in publications such as The New Yorker and Time Magazine. Another significant figure is María Pilar Ordóñez de la Fuente, a Spanish journalist who became the first woman to lead a European news agency when she was appointed Director General of EFE (Agencia Efe) in 2013. Lastly, within the scientific community, José Antonio Ordóñez de Pablos is a renowned researcher specializing in materials science and engineering at the University of Oxford.

Genealogical research on the last name Ordovas

The surname Ordovas originates from Spain and is predominantly found in the regions of Galicia and Asturias, with some occurrences in other parts of the country. Its roots can be traced back to the Middle Ages, particularly during the Christian Reconquista period when many new settlements were established along the northern coast. The name Ordovas is believed to have Celtic origins, derived from the word "Ordo-vos", which means "place of eagles" in the ancient Galaico-Latin language. This surname may have been given to someone who lived near a place where eagles were commonly spotted or respected. Over time, variations such as Ordóñez, Ordóvez, and Orduña emerged due to spelling inconsistencies during the transcribing of records. The Ordovas family history is intertwined with the rich cultural and political landscape of medieval Spain, contributing significantly to the region's development.

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NomOrigine Team
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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.

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