Last Name Reig

The surname Reig (also spelled as Rey, Ray, Rhea, etc.) is of Old French and Germanic origins. It originally comes from the Old High German "reihh" or the Old French "rei," which both mean "king." Over time, it evolved into various spellings across different regions due to historical and linguistic factors. The surname Reig became more common in Spain and Catalonia, as well as other parts of Europe, through a variety of historical events such as migration, conquests, and the formation of feudal societies.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Reig

The meaning and origin of the last name Reig

The surname Reig is of Spanish origin, specifically Catalan, where it is pronounced [reɪˈʒ] (Ra-i-zh). It is derived from the Old Occitan word "raiz" meaning 'root', which was later adapted into Castilian as "raíz" and "raje", and in Catalan as "raig" or "rei". Over time, these variations morphed into the modern form of Reig, often spelled as Ray in some regions. The name likely originated from a person who was associated with roots or plants, or could have been a nickname for someone who gave sound advice or held a position of authority, similar to the English term "reign". Due to historical patterns of migration and settlement, the surname Reig is predominantly found in Spain, particularly in Catalonia, but also in other Spanish-speaking countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Reig

The surname Reig is predominantly found in Catalonia, an autonomous community in northeastern Spain. It originates from this region and has been carried by families for generations. A significant number of people with the surname Reig also reside in other parts of Spain, particularly in Valencia, Madrid, and the Balearic Islands. Outside of Spain, there is a noticeable presence of the Reig family name in Argentina, especially in the provinces of Buenos Aires and Cordoba, reflecting the historical migration of Catalans to South America during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, smaller groups of people with the surname Reig can be found in other countries, such as France, the United States, and Italy, primarily due to immigration and intermarriage over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Reig

The surname Reig has several variations and spellings, reflecting its origins and usage across different regions. Some common spelling variations include Ray, Raye, Rai, Rhea, Rea, Reigh, and Rayegh. These variations may arise due to phonetic changes, transcription errors in historical records, or regional dialects. For instance, the Spanish surname "Reig" might be transliterated as "Rey" or "Ray" when adopted by English speakers. Similarly, it can evolve into different forms over time and across generations within a family lineage. However, it is essential to note that these variations may have distinct meanings in various cultures or languages. For example, the name Ray can be of Old Norse origin (meaning "island") or Anglo-Saxon origin (meaning "wagon"), while Reig in Catalan language denotes "grasshopper."

Famous people with the last name Reig

The Reig surname has been associated with notable figures from various fields across the globe. In literature, Manuel Reig Tapia, a Spanish author, is well-known for his works such as "El bosque animado" and "La sombra del pino". Another renowned individual with the same surname is Ana Reig, a Spanish journalist who has worked extensively in television news. In sports, Josep Reig Vila was a prominent footballer from Spain, playing for teams like Barcelona B and Real Murcia. In the realm of academia, Joan Reig i Boada, a Catalan historian and archaeologist, has made significant contributions to Catalan Studies. Additionally, the Cuban-born artist Eduardo Reig is recognized for his work in printmaking, graphic design, and illustration. These individuals exemplify the diverse achievements and impact of those carrying the Reig surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Reig

The surname Reig, originating from Catalonia, Spain, has a rich and varied history. It is believed to derive from the Old French "reieg" or "regia," meaning "royal domain" or "region." The name was likely brought to Catalonia during the Middle Ages by settlers from France. The Reig family can be traced back to the 13th century, with the first recorded mention in the Catalan Censual of 1279, where Guillem Reig is listed as a resident of Barcelona. Over time, the Reigs spread throughout Catalonia and beyond, with notable figures such as the composer Jaume Reus-i-Ripolles (also known as Francisco de Regoyos) in the 18th century, who made significant contributions to the music world, and Josep Reig i Boix, a prominent Catalan politician in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the Reig family continues to thrive, with many descendants living around the globe.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Reig"
• 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 : 15 June 2025

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