Last Name Saez

The last name Saez has roots in several countries and languages, with different origins depending on the specific family lineage. Some sources suggest that it is a Basque surname derived from the word "saize," meaning "willow" or "sedge." Others trace it to France, where it could be a variant of the French name "Saisse," which has various meanings including "from Saisy," a place in eastern France. The name may also have origins in other countries such as Spain or Portugal. It's important to note that the exact origin can vary greatly among different families who share the same last name.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Saez

The meaning and origin of the last name Saez

The surname Saez originates from the Basque Country, a region spanning parts of Spain and France. It is derived from the Basque word "saia" or "zaia," which means 'sack' or 'bag.' This surname was often given to someone who worked with sacks or bags in their occupation. The Basque people are an ethnic group known for their distinct language and cultural practices, who have inhabited this region since prehistoric times. The spread of the Saez surname beyond the Basque Country is a result of migration and assimilation during historical periods, particularly with the expansion of Spanish influence throughout Europe and its colonies.

Geographical distribution of the last name Saez

The surname Saez is predominantly distributed across Spain and South America, particularly in countries such as Argentina, Chile, Cuba, Peru, and Uruguay. This is likely due to historical Spanish colonization and subsequent migration patterns. Within Spain, the highest concentration of the Saez surname can be found in the regions of Galicia, Cantabria, and the Basque Country. It's also present in other parts of Europe, primarily France, where it may have originated as a result of historical connections between the Iberian Peninsula and the French provinces of Gascony and Navarre. The Saez surname is also found in smaller numbers in North America, with significant communities in the United States and Canada, likely due to immigration from Spain and South America during the 20th century.

Variants and spellings of the last name Saez

The surname Saez, of Spanish origin, has several variants and spellings due to regional dialects, transcription errors, or personal preferences. Some common variations include Saéz, Sáez, and Záez. In some cases, the accent marks may be omitted, resulting in Saez, Saez, and Zaez. Furthermore, it is also possible to find the name spelled as Ceaze, Caez, or even Caze, particularly among families who immigrated to English-speaking countries from Spain. It's essential to note that the correct spelling often depends on the specific family lineage and historical context.

Famous people with the last name Saez

Notable individuals with the surname Saez include:

1. Gabriel Saez (born 1983), a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Levante UD. He has also represented the Spanish national team.

2. Javier Sáenz de Oiza (1905-1976), a Spanish architect known for his modernist designs, including the Church of Nuestra Señora del Pilar in Zaragoza and the Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander.

3. Josep Saez i Obiol (1884-1950), a Catalan architect who was a pioneer in modernist architecture, with notable works such as the Casa Mulleras in Barcelona.

4. Juan Carlos Sáez (born 1976), a Chilean football coach and former player. He played as a defender for clubs like Colo-Colo and Deportivo Cali, and represented the Chile national team.

5. Luis Miguel Sánchez Sáez (born 1983), a Spanish professional basketball player who plays as a point guard for Valencia Basket in the Liga ACB. He has also played for the Spanish national team.

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on architecture, sports, and coaching.

Genealogical research on the last name Saez

The surname Saez is predominantly Spanish and Portuguese in origin, stemming from the medieval occupation of sazón (saltmaker) or sapateiro (shoemaker). In Spain, it is most commonly found in the regions of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Balearic Islands. The name's early recorded instances include Juan Saez in 14th-century Spain and Diogo Sáez in 15th-century Portugal. Over time, variations such as Saz, Saiz, and Caez emerged due to regional dialects and spelling differences. The name also spread to Latin America with the colonization of the Americas by the Spanish, where it remains a popular surname today. Notable individuals bearing the name include Cuban composer Silvestre de Sáez and Argentine actress Natalia Oreiro Saez.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Saez"
• 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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