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Last Name Pode

What is the origin of the last name Pode?

The surname Pode is believed to have origins in various European countries, including Portugal and Czech Republic. In Portuguese, "Pode" can be a variant of the surname "Podio," which comes from a place name or nickname derived from the word "podo," meaning "foot" or "leg" in Latin. In the Czech Republic, Pode is a diminutive form of the given name Poděbrad (or Podiebrad), which was originally a toponymic surname that came from the town of Poděbrady in Bohemia. The town's name likely derives from the Slavic word "pod" meaning "under" and "Břady," the name of a nearby stream or wooded area. The distribution of the Pode surname suggests both Portuguese and Czech origins, with more instances found among populations in those countries. As with many surnames, it is also possible that individuals bearing the name have migrated from these regions to other parts of the world over the centuries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Pode

The meaning and origin of the last name Pode

The surname Pode is of Old English origin, derived from various geographical locations, as well as occupational origins. Originating from a place name, "Poda" was an early medieval village located in Devon, England, which is suggested to have been the primary source for this surname. Alternatively, it could be related to the Old English word "pōd" or "podu," meaning foot, indicating a possible occupational origin for the name. The surname Pode was also found among settlers in the United States in the 17th century, particularly in New England, and has been recorded as spelled Pod, Pode, Poda, Poad, and Poda over time.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pode

The surname Pode is predominantly found in Portugal, where it originates. In the Iberian country, it is most frequent in the districts of Braga, Porto, Vila Real, and Aveiro. The name's concentration in these regions suggests a historical connection to the Kingdom of Portugal during the Middle Ages. Outside Portugal, the surname Pode can also be found in Brazil due to Portuguese immigration during colonization and later periods. In Brazil, it is most common in the states of Pernambuco, Paraíba, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo. Additionally, there are smaller populations bearing the name Pode in other Portuguese-speaking countries like Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde, as a result of further dispersal during colonization and post-colonial migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pode

The surname Pode possesses several variations and spellings due to differences in transcription and transliteration over time and across regions. Some common variants include Poad, Podd, Poade, Poady, Podey, and Podai. These variations may stem from regional dialects or historical spelling conventions. Additionally, the name might also have different roots, such as a Germanic origin (from the Old High German "podo" meaning foot), or it could be of English origin, derived from the Old English word "pod" meaning "footprint." It's essential to consider these factors when researching the history and origins of the Pode surname.

Famous people with the last name Pode

The Pode surname is less common in global public figures compared to some other names, but it has been associated with notable individuals across various fields. One well-known person bearing this name is Janusz Podewils (born 1938), a Polish diplomat who served as Poland's Ambassador to the United Nations from 1990 to 2001. In the world of sports, there is Richard Podein (born 1965), a German professional football player who played for several clubs in Germany and Switzerland during his career that spanned over two decades. Another significant figure with this surname is Paul Podewski, an American politician who served as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly from 2003 to 2011. While these are some of the most notable individuals with the last name Pode, it's essential to note that many more people sharing this surname have made valuable contributions in their respective fields and communities.

Genealogical research on the last name Pode

The surname Pode is primarily found in Portugal and has potential roots dating back to the medieval period. In Portuguese, the name may derive from the word "pode," which means "may" or "can." One of the earliest known records of the surname was Alvaro Pereira Pode, who lived in the 13th century. The name began to spread throughout Portugal during the Age of Discoveries (15th-17th centuries) as many people with the surname migrated to other parts of the world due to exploration and colonization efforts led by Portugal. Notable individuals with the last name Pode include Joao da Costa Pinto Pode, a Brazilian architect, and Manuel Almeida Pode, a Portuguese footballer.

Variations of the surname may include Podé, Poide, Póde, and others due to spelling changes over time and different regional pronunciations. The name remains relatively common in Portugal and some Portuguese-speaking communities around the world.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 28 July 2025

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