Last Name Quezada

The surname Quezada has Spanish origins and is derived from the word "queza" which means "cheese." This surname was often given to a person who lived near a place where cheese was made or sold. However, it could also have been a nickname for someone with a rounded or full face, reminiscent of a wheel of cheese. In some cases, the name might have been a metonymy occupational surname, indicating that the original bearer was a cheesemaker. In Spanish-speaking regions, the last names of individuals tend to reflect their ancestry, occupation, or place of origin.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Quezada

The meaning and origin of the last name Quezada

The surname Quezada is of Spanish origin, particularly common in Spain and countries with a heavy Spanish influence such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, and some regions of the United States. It derives from the word "queza" or "queso," which mean 'cheese' in Spanish. The surname was often given to people who were associated with cheese-making or lived near a cheese production area, reflecting their occupation or geographical origin. In some cases, it may have been used as a nickname for someone with pale complexion, reminiscent of the color of aged cheese. As with many Spanish surnames, Quezada has been passed down through generations, and its use today reflects the rich historical connections between Spain and its colonies.

Geographical distribution of the last name Quezada

The surname Quezada is predominantly distributed across Latin America, with significant concentrations in Mexico and Central American countries such as El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. It is also common in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico in the Caribbean. In the United States, individuals with the last name Quezada are primarily of Mexican or Central American descent, particularly in California, Texas, Florida, New Mexico, and Illinois. Additionally, there are minor occurrences in Spain, where it likely originated, and other European countries due to historical migrations. The name may also be found in some parts of South America, but its prevalence is less compared to the aforementioned regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Quezada

The surname Quezada has several variations and spellings due to the historical phonetic changes, regional differences, and personal preferences in naming conventions. Some common variants include Quisada, Quezaday, Kezada, Kisada, and Kesada. The name's roots can be traced back to Spain, where it was originally spelled as Cisada or Kisada, which were later adapted into the more familiar form, Quezada, in various Spanish-speaking regions. It is also important to note that some individuals may spell their surname differently due to immigration and assimilation influences, thus creating unique variations such as Keyesada, Kezadia, or Quisadey. These differences underscore the rich cultural history and diversity embedded within the Quezada name.

Famous people with the last name Quezada

Notable individuals sharing the surname Quezada include:

1. Juan Gabriel (Alfonso Aguirre Quezada), a celebrated Mexican singer-songwriter and actor who sold over 60 million records worldwide. Known for hits like "Amor Eterno" and "Querida," he was recognized as El Divo de Juárez.

2. Ricardo Quezada, an American football defensive lineman who played in the National Football League (NFL) for teams such as the Houston Texans and New York Giants. In 2018, he won a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles.

3. José Guadalupe Posada Quezada, a Mexican printmaker, engraver, and cartoonist who created iconic images of La Catrina and La Llorona that are now recognized symbols of Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations.

4. Carlos Quezada, an American singer-songwriter and guitarist who was a member of the Tejano band Mazz. The group achieved international success with their hit single "Tu No Tiene Alguien" in 1987.

Genealogical research on the last name Quezada

The surname Quezada originates from Spain and is predominantly found among the people of Basque descent. The name's earliest known origins lie in the region of Guipuzcoa, where it was initially a geographical indication meaning "chestnut grove." The Basques were known for their martial prowess and seafaring abilities, and many migrated to the Americas during the colonization era. In the New World, particularly in Mexico, Central America, and South America, Quezadas became prominent figures, with several notable individuals holding high political positions and making significant contributions to the regions' cultural and historical landscapes. The Quezada name has also been found in various parts of the United States, where it is often associated with Mexican-American families who trace their roots back to these regions. Today, Quezadas can be found worldwide, reflecting the long history of migration and dispersal from their original Basque origins.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Quezada"
• 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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