Last Name Quiros

The surname Quiros has its roots in Spain, specifically in the regions of Castile and Leon. It is a patrilinear surname derived from the given name "Fernando," which was popular among Christians during the Middle Ages. The name Fernando originated as an Iberian form of the Visigothic name "Fernand," itself coming from the Germanic elements "fern" (adventurous, brave) and "hard" (strong, hardy). Over time, this name evolved into various forms in different regions, including Quiros. The surname was likely brought to other countries by Spanish explorers and colonizers during the Age of Discovery, where it has been passed down through generations.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Quiros

The meaning and origin of the last name Quiros

The surname Quiros is of Spanish origin, derived from the medieval occupational name "el quirurgio" (the surgeon) or the personal name Ciriaco, which meant 'ritual cleanliness' in Latin. It is thought to have been a common surname in medieval Spain due to the importance of surgery and surgical skills during that period. The surname was likely brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers and settlers, where it became widely distributed among Hispanic populations, particularly in Central and South America. Today, the surname Quiros is common throughout these regions as well as in Spain and Portugal. Variations of the name include Quirós, de Quiro, O'Quinn (Irish), and Kirk (English).

Geographical distribution of the last name Quiros

The surname Quiros is predominantly found in Spanish-speaking regions, particularly Spain and various Latin American countries such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Peru, Chile, Argentina, and others. It is also present to some extent in the Philippines, where it was introduced during the Spanish colonization period. Quiros is a patrilineal surname, meaning that it is traditionally passed down from father to son. In Spain, it originates primarily from the region of Galicia but can be found across the country as well. In Latin America, its distribution varies by country but tends to be more common in rural or agricultural areas. The name's geographical dispersion reflects historical migration patterns, with many Spanish and Portuguese explorers, conquerors, and settlers bearing the Quiros surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Quiros

The surname Quiros has several variations and spellings. Some common spelling differences include Quirós, de Quirós, Kihos, Keyhos, Keiros, Keehros, Quiroz, and Kirouz. These variations may appear due to regional dialects, phonetic transliteration, or historical influences. For instance, the Spanish version is usually spelled as Quirós or Quiros, while Portuguese speakers might write it as Kiros or Kihos. Similarly, individuals of Greek or other non-Hispanic origin may spell the name differently based on their cultural background and language. It's essential to consider these variations when searching for records or genealogical information related to this surname.

Famous people with the last name Quiros

Francisco Pizarro y Alonso de Quiroz (1475-1541) was a Spanish conquistador most renowned for leading the conquest of the Inca Empire in Peru in the early 16th century. Born in Trujillo, Spain, Pizarro and his brothers traveled to the New World where they participated in several expeditions before embarking on the conquest of the Incas. After capturing the Inca emperor Atahualpa, Pizarro executed him and established Spanish rule over Peru.

In addition to Pizarro, another notable figure with the last name Quiroz is the Costa Rican President Rafael Angel Calderon Fournier (1941-). He served as the President of Costa Rica from 2006 to 2010 and was a key figure in the country's transition to democracy. Prior to his presidency, he held several positions in government, including Minister of Foreign Trade, Minister of Planning and Economic Policy, and Minister of Finance. He is also known for his work on trade liberalization and economic development in Costa Rica.

Genealogical research on the last name Quiros

The surname Quiros originates from the Iberian Peninsula, specifically Spain and Portugal, where it is thought to have been originally derived from the Roman family name Quiricius. It is believed that the first documented bearer of the name in Europe was a certain Petrus Filius Quiricii who lived in the 13th century. The name then spread across the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages as people migrated and settled.

In the New World, the Quiros surname is most notably associated with Juan Ponce de León, a Spanish conquistador and explorer who discovered Puerto Rico in 1508 and Florida in 1513. Another notable figure is Gonzalo Fernández de Oviedo y Valdés, a chronicler and naturalist born in Spain, but whose family had been established in the Americas since the late 16th century.

The surname Quiros also has a significant presence in Latin America, particularly in countries such as Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Brazil, where it is often found among populations of Spanish descent. Variations of the name include Quirós, de Quiros, and Kirov (in some Eastern European regions due to historical influences). The genetic diversity within the Quiros surname group is diverse, reflecting its geographical dispersal over many centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Quiros"
• 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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