Last Name Pereira

The last name "Pereira" has Portuguese origins. It is derived from the word "pereiro," which translates to "pear tree" in English. In Portuguese, surnames often have geographical or topographical origins, and "Pereira" likely originated as a locational surname, referring to someone who lived near or had an association with a pear tree. The name could have also originated from a place named Pereira or from an occupation related to pear trees, such as a pear farmer or pear woodworker. It is a relatively common surname found in Portugal, Brazil, and other Portuguese-speaking countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Pereira

The meaning and origin of the last name Pereira

The surname Pereira has both Portuguese and Spanish origins. It is derived from the Portuguese word "pereira" and the Spanish word "peral," which mean "pear tree" in English. As a surname, Pereira was initially used to denote someone who either lived near a pear tree or worked in a pear orchard. It is a common surname among people of Portuguese and Spanish descent. The surname Pereira may have different variations or spellings, such as Pereyro or Perera. It is widely found in both Portugal and Spain, as well as in countries that were once colonized by these nations, including Brazil, Chile, and the Philippines. As with many surnames, the dispersion of the Pereira name can be attributed to migration and colonization throughout history. Today, individuals with the surname Pereira can be found all over the world, owing to various factors such as immigration and intermarriage. The surname itself continues to carry the historical significance of a pear tree and represents the ancestral lineage of those who bear it.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pereira

The last name Pereira has a wide geographical distribution, predominantly found in Portugal, Brazil, and Spain. In Portugal, it is one of the most common surnames, particularly concentrated in the north of the country. Due to historical connections and colonization, the name Pereira can also be found in significant numbers across Brazil, where it is one of the most widespread surnames. In Brazil, it is present in various regions, with larger concentrations in the southern and southeast areas of the country. Additionally, the last name is also relatively common in Spain, particularly in the northwest regions such as Galicia and Asturias. Besides these main countries, individuals carrying the surname Pereira can be found in smaller numbers in other parts of Europe, as well as in former Portuguese colonies such as Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Pereira reflects its deep historical and cultural roots in Portuguese-speaking countries and regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pereira

The last name Pereira is a versatile surname with various spellings and regional variations. Some common spellings include Pereira, Pereyra, Perejra, Peryra, Pereyro, and Pereiro. These variations are primarily influenced by different linguistic backgrounds and historical factors. For instance, the spelling Pereyra is often associated with individuals of Spanish or Portuguese origin, while Perejra is more common among individuals from South America, particularly Argentina. On the other hand, the spelling Pereiro is popular among people with Galician or Portuguese heritage. Despite these spelling differences, all variations ultimately refer to the same ancestral name. The name Pereira is derived from the Portuguese word "pereiro," meaning pear tree. It reminds individuals of their ancestral roots and represents a sense of familial identity and heritage. Regardless of the spelling, individuals with the last name Pereira share a common bond and represent a diverse and widespread family tree.

Famous people with the last name Pereira

There have been several famous individuals with the last name Pereira who have made an impact in various fields. One prominent figure is Claudia Pereira, a Portuguese politician and member of the European Parliament. Known for her activism and dedication to human rights, Pereira has been actively involved in promoting social justice and equality throughout her political career. In the world of sports, André Pereira is a renowned Portuguese football player who has gained recognition for his talent and skills. He has played for esteemed clubs in Portugal, showcasing his ability to score goals and contribute to his team's success. In the field of arts and entertainment, Marisa Pereira is a Brazilian actress known for her captivating performances on both the stage and screen. With her talent and versatility, she has captivated audiences and earned accolades for her roles in popular television dramas and films. These famous Pereiras have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, enriching society with their contributions and achievements.

Genealogical research on the last name Pereira

The last name Pereira originates from Portugal and is derived from the Portuguese word "pereiro," meaning "pear tree." The surname is associated with families who resided near pear orchards or engaged in pear cultivation. Pereira has deep roots in Portuguese history and is one of the most common surnames in the country. Genealogical research on the Pereira name reveals a diverse and widespread diaspora across the world, particularly in Brazil, where many Portuguese immigrants settled. The surname has branched out to different regions, including Spain, Goa (India), and various Portuguese colonies. Researching the family tree of those with the Pereira name typically involves exploring records such as church registries, immigration records, and census data to trace lineage back several generations. Individuals with the last name Pereira can discover a rich tapestry of their ancestry, unveiling connections to their Portuguese heritage and potentially uncovering relatives in unexpected corners of the world.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Pereira"
• 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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