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Last Name Sobreira

What is the origin of the last name Sobreira?

The surname Sobreira is of Portuguese origin. It is derived from the Portuguese word "sobreiro," which means cork oak tree. The name likely originated as a topographic or occupational surname for someone who lived near or worked with cork oak trees. Cork oak trees are native to the Mediterranean region and are traditionally grown and harvested for their bark, which is used to make cork products.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sobreira

The meaning and origin of the last name Sobreira

The surname Sobreira is of Portuguese origin and is derived from the word "sobreiro," which means cork oak tree in Portuguese. The surname likely originates from individuals who lived near or worked with cork oak trees in Portugal. Cork oak trees are known for their valuable bark, which is used in the production of cork products such as wine stoppers and flooring. Therefore, those with the surname Sobreira may have had ancestors who were involved in the cork industry, whether as cork harvesters, producers, or craftsmen. The surname Sobreira may also have been given to individuals who lived near areas abundant with cork oak trees or who owned land with a significant number of cork oaks. Today, the surname Sobreira is relatively common in Portugal and may be found in other countries with Portuguese-speaking populations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sobreira

The last name Sobreira is of Portuguese origin and is most commonly found in Portugal and in regions that have been influenced by Portuguese colonization, such as Brazil and parts of Africa. In Portugal, the surname Sobreira is most prevalent in the northern regions, particularly in the districts of Porto and Braga. In Brazil, where many Portuguese immigrants settled, the surname can be found throughout the country, with concentrations in the states of Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, due to the historical ties between Portugal and certain African countries, such as Angola and Mozambique, the surname Sobreira can also be found in these regions, albeit in smaller numbers. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Sobreira reflects the historical connections between Portugal and its former colonies.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sobreira

Sobreira, a Portuguese surname, may have several variations and spellings. Some common variations include Sobrera, Sobreire, Sobreiro, and Soveria. The spelling of the name can also be altered depending on the region or country where the family originates from, leading to variations such as Sobeira, Sobreirra, and Sobreera. Different dialects and accents within the Portuguese language can also affect how the name is spelled and pronounced, resulting in variations like Sobraira or Soubreia. Additionally, individuals may choose to anglicize the name when moving to an English-speaking country, resulting in variations such as Sovera or Sobera. Despite the different spellings and variations, the surname Sobreira alludes to a common ancestral root and heritage within the Portuguese culture.

Famous people with the last name Sobreira

There are not many famous people with the last name Sobreira, but one notable figure is Alexandre Sobreira, a Brazilian musician known for his work in the jazz and bossa nova genres. His smooth vocals and skillful guitar playing have earned him a following both in Brazil and internationally. Another prominent Sobreira is Pedro Sobreira, a renowned chef and restaurateur in Portugal. His inventive cuisine and dedication to using local, seasonal ingredients have made his restaurants popular destinations for food enthusiasts. Despite the relative rarity of the surname, these individuals have made a significant impact in their respective fields and have helped to raise the profile of the Sobreira name.

Genealogical research on the last name Sobreira

The surname Sobreira has its origins in Portugal, specifically in the region of Galicia. It is a toponymic surname, derived from the name of a place called Sobreira, which means "oak tree" in Portuguese. The surname is likely to have originated from individuals who lived near or owned land with oak trees. Research on the Sobreira family history reveals that the surname has been passed down through generations, with some branches of the family moving to Brazil and other parts of the world during periods of migration. The Sobreira family has a rich and diverse history, with individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities and professions. Through genealogical research, it is possible to trace the lineage of the Sobreira family and uncover connections to other families with similar origins.

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 : 11 April 2025

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