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Last Name Pavao

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What is the origin of the last name Pavao?

The last name Pavao is of Portuguese and Galician origin. It is derived from the word "pavão", which means "peacock" in Portuguese. Family names often come from nicknames, and in this case, it is likely that the name was originally given to someone who was associated with peacocks or had characteristics similar to a peacock. Over time, this nickname became a family surname. The name Pavao is still found in Portugal and Brazil today.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Pavao

The meaning and origin of the last name Pavao

The surname Pavao is of Portuguese origin and is derived from the word "pavão," which means "peacock" in Portuguese. The surname likely originated as a nickname for someone who displayed characteristics or behaviors similar to those of a peacock, such as being proud or flamboyant. Peacocks are known for their vibrant colors and striking displays, so the surname Pavao may have been given to someone who stood out in a similar manner. Alternatively, it could also have been a surname given to someone who worked with or lived near peacocks. Overall, the surname Pavao is an interesting and colorful name that likely has a vibrant history and origin in Portugal.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pavao

The last name Pavao is predominantly found in Portugal and Brazil. In Portugal, it is more common in the central and southern regions of the country, including Lisbon and Setúbal. In Brazil, the surname is most prevalent in the states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Rio de Janeiro, where there are significant populations of Portuguese descent. The name may also be found in other Portuguese-speaking countries such as Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde due to historical ties with Portugal. Additionally, there are smaller pockets of individuals with the last name Pavao in other parts of the world, particularly in the United States and Canada, where Portuguese immigrants have settled over the years. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Pavao reflects its Portuguese origins and history of migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pavao

The last name Pavao can be found spelled in a variety of ways due to its Portuguese origin. Some variations of the name include Pavo, Pavão, and Pavaô. Other possible spellings include Pavoão, Pavow, Paveo, and Pavaou. The name may also be spelled with a tilde over the "a" like Pavão or with an accent mark over the "a" like Pavào. Additionally, some individuals may choose to spell the name phonetically as Pavow or Pavaow. Despite the different spellings, all variations of the name Pavao ultimately stem from the same Portuguese surname. It is not uncommon for individuals with this last name to encounter different spellings or pronunciations of their surname, depending on factors such as region or historical documents.

Famous people with the last name Pavao

One famous person with the last name Pavao is Leila Pavao, a Brazilian-American actress known for her work in television and film. She has appeared in series such as "NCIS: Los Angeles" and "The Mentalist" and has also starred in several independent films. Leila Pavao has garnered praise for her versatile performances and her ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. Another notable figure with the last name Pavao is Monique Pavao, a successful entrepreneur and founder of the popular catering company, The Pavao Group. Monique Pavao has earned a reputation for her innovative approach to cuisine and her commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients in her dishes. Both Leila and Monique Pavao have achieved success in their respective fields and have become influential figures in the entertainment and culinary industries.

Genealogical research on the last name Pavao

The surname Pavao is of Portuguese origin and is derived from the first name Paulo, a variant of the Latin name Paulus, meaning "small" or "humble." The Pavao family likely originated in Portugal and spread to other Portuguese-speaking countries such as Brazil and Mozambique. The name may also have Sephardic Jewish origins, as many Jews converted to Christianity during the Inquisition and adopted Portuguese surnames. Genealogical research of the Pavao surname may reveal connections to noble families, military officers, and prominent figures in Portuguese history. Today, individuals with the last name Pavao can be found around the world, with variations in spelling such as Pava, Pavão, and Pavão. Researching the Pavao family history can uncover a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance within the Portuguese diaspora.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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.

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