Last Name Peraza

The last name "Peraza" is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Spanish word "perazo," meaning "big stone" or "large rock." This suggests that the surname may have originally referred to someone living near a notable rock formation or mountainous area. The name is more commonly found in Spain and Latin American countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Peraza

The meaning and origin of the last name Peraza

The surname Peraza is of Spanish origin and is believed to have derived from the medieval Spanish word "peraça," meaning "stubborn" or "hard-headed." This surname is predominantly found in the Canary Islands, particularly in the province of Las Palmas. The name may have been associated with individuals who possessed a strong-willed or determined nature. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname given to someone with a round or pear-shaped head. Surnames often originated from various characteristics, occupations, or even physical attributes of the individuals or their ancestors. The Peraza surname can be traced back to the 16th century in the Canary Islands, with notable branches of the family having held noble titles and been influential in society. Today, descendants of the Peraza family can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in Latin America, due to migrations throughout history.

Geographical distribution of the last name Peraza

The last name Peraza is primarily found in the Spanish-speaking countries of Latin America, namely Venezuela, Mexico, and Cuba. In Venezuela, the Peraza surname is quite common and can be traced back to the Canary Islands, Spain, where many Venezuelans of Canarian descent can be found. In Mexico, the name is also prevalent, especially in the Yucatán Peninsula, where it is believed to have originated from the Spanish conquistadores who settled in the region. Similarly, in Cuba, the Peraza surname is well-known, and it can be found dispersed throughout the island. Due to historical migration patterns, some individuals with the last name Peraza can also be found in the United States, particularly in states with significant Hispanic populations such as Florida, California, and Texas. Overall, the distribution of the Peraza last name is closely tied to Spanish-speaking regions with ties to Spain and Latin America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Peraza

The last name Peraza may have several variations and spellings across different regions and languages. Some common variations include Peraça, Perasa, Peraiza, Peraça, Perazza, Peraza, Peraisa, Peraiza, Perice, Perisi, and Periso. These variations may stem from changes made during the immigration process, as well as differences in pronunciation and spelling conventions in various countries. For instance, in Spanish-speaking countries, Peraza is the most common spelling, while other variations could be more prevalent in regions influenced by different languages, such as Portuguese or Italian. Such variations and spellings can yield insights into a family's migration history and can serve as valuable clues in genealogical research. Overall, the last name Peraza encompasses various spellings and variations, reflecting the diverse contexts and cultures in which it is found.

Famous people with the last name Peraza

One famous person with the last name Peraza is José Luis Peraza, a renowned Venezuelan politician and lawyer. He served as the Governor of the state of Nueva Esparta from 1992 to 2000 and was actively involved in the political scene for several decades. Peraza played a key role in the establishment of the Social Democratic Party (AD) in his home state, and he is well-regarded for his dedication to public service and democracy. Another notable personality with the last name Peraza is Manuel Peraza Segovia, a distinguished Mexican poet and essayist. His works have been celebrated for their depth of emotion and unique perspective, earning him recognition as an important voice in Mexican literature. Peraza Segovia's poetry often explores themes of love, spirituality, and the human condition. His writings continue to inspire and resonate with readers worldwide.

Genealogical research on the last name Peraza

The surname Peraza is of Spanish origin and has a rich genealogical history. The name is believed to have ancient roots in the region of Castile, which is located in present-day Spain. The earliest known records of the Peraza surname date back to the medieval period, where it was associated with noble families and individuals of high social status. As the centuries passed, the Peraza family spread across different regions, including the Canary Islands, Mexico, and other parts of Latin America. Several notable figures carrying the Peraza name emerged throughout history, such as governors, military leaders, and prominent landowners. Today, individuals with the surname Peraza can be found worldwide, with many descendants maintaining ties to their Spanish roots. Genealogical research on the Peraza family can provide a fascinating journey tracing their lineage through the centuries and exploring their contribution to various cultures and societies.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Peraza"
• 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 April 2025

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