Last Name Patron

The surname Patron (also spelled as Patrón) is of Spanish and French origin. In both languages, it means 'patron' or 'master'. It was often used to denote a master craftsman, landowner, or a patron of a religious institution. The name has been used in various cultures for centuries, but its most prominent use can be traced back to Spain and France.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Patron

The meaning and origin of the last name Patron

The surname Patron originates from the Latin word "patrons," which means protector or patron, indicating a person who offers protection or support. Historically, it was often used to denote someone who served as a guardian or protector, particularly in feudal societies where lords might take on the name of their protecting deity, monarch, or benefactor. Over time, the surname Patron spread across Europe and was eventually brought to various regions by immigrants. Today, it remains a common last name in many Spanish-speaking countries, as well as other parts of the world with historical links to these regions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Patron

The surname Patron is most prevalent in Spanish-speaking countries due to its etymological origins from the Latin word 'patronus', meaning protector or patron. The highest concentration of this family name can be found in Mexico, Spain, and other Spanish-speaking regions such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, and Equatorial Guinea. It is also present in countries with significant Spanish immigration, like the United States, Argentina, Colombia, and Venezuela. Smaller groups bearing the Patron surname can be found in French territories with a substantial Spanish-speaking population, such as Peru, Chile, and some parts of Central America. Additionally, the diaspora has extended the distribution of this name to various other countries, particularly in North America and Europe, albeit at lower frequencies.

Variants and spellings of the last name Patron

The surname Patron has several variations and spellings worldwide due to transliteration and regional differences. Some common variants include: Patroni, Patrone, Patronis, Patrón, de los Patrones, Del Patron, Los Patrones, Patrón-Verger, Pátron, Patróni, Pàtrone, and many others. In French, the name may be spelled as le Patron, while in Spanish, it is often written as El Patrón. These variations reflect the diverse heritage and geographical distribution of individuals sharing this last name. It originated from various places such as Spain, France, Italy, and other countries, making it a common surname among many different cultures.

Famous people with the last name Patron

The Patron surname is associated with several notable individuals across various fields. In music, Jose Gonzalez-Patron, also known as José James González, is a Swedish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. His unique blend of folk, indie, and world music has earned him international acclaim.

In the realm of gastronomy, Richard Patrón Coste is a renowned chef who co-founded the restaurant Le Chique in Mexico City. He is known for his innovative approach to Mexican cuisine, fusing traditional techniques with contemporary twists.

In the world of finance, Carlos Slim Patron, also known as "el hombre del mil millardario," is a Mexican business magnate and investor. As of 2021, he is one of the richest people in the world, with a net worth estimated at over $60 billion.

Lastly, Maria Cristina Patron, an Italian economist and professor, has made significant contributions to research on economic theory, game theory, and public finance. She has held positions at several prestigious academic institutions worldwide. These are some of the most famous people with the last name Patron.

Genealogical research on the last name Patron

The surname Patron originates from Old French and Latin roots, where it was initially used to denote someone who acted as a protector or patron. In medieval Europe, a patron could be a feudal lord, a religious figure, or a wealthy individual who provided support and protection to another person.

The earliest known records of the Patron family can be traced back to France during the Middle Ages. From there, the name spread across Europe as French nobility migrated to various regions following territorial disputes and conflicts. The Patron family later established significant lineages in Spain, Italy, and Portugal, where the surname became popular due to the influence of the Roman Catholic Church and the Crusades.

In modern times, Patron families can be found worldwide, with large populations in Latin America, particularly Mexico, as a result of Spanish colonization. The distribution of the name also reflects historical patterns of migration, such as those from Europe to North America during the 16th-19th centuries and more recently from Latin America to the United States. Today, Patron is ranked among the most common surnames in several countries, reflecting its rich and diverse history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Patron"
• 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

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