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Last Name Tora

What is the origin of the last name Tora?

The surname "Tora" is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Middle English and Old French word "tor," which means "tower." It was likely used as a surname to denote someone who lived near or belonged to a tower.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Tora

The meaning and origin of the last name Tora

The surname Tora is of Spanish origin and is derived from the word "torre" which means "tower" in Spanish. It is believed that the surname Tora was originally a topographic name given to someone who lived near a tower or a defensive structure. In some cases, it could also have been an occupational surname given to someone who worked at or managed a tower. The use of surnames became more common in Europe during the Middle Ages as societies became more organized and centralized, leading to the adoption of surnames to distinguish individuals. Over time, the surname Tora has likely undergone variations in spelling and pronunciation as it has been passed down through generations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Tora

The last name Tora is commonly found in Spain, specifically in regions such as Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands. It is also present in Italy, particularly in the regions of Sicily and Calabria. Additionally, the surname Tora can be found in countries across Latin America, such as Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia. In Asia, the name Tora is prevalent in Japan, where it is a commonly used first name rather than a surname. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Tora extends across various regions in Europe, Latin America, and Asia, with different concentrations in Spain, Italy, and Japan.

Variants and spellings of the last name Tora

The last name "Tora" can be spelled and pronounced in various ways, including "Taurah," "Tohrah," "Taurer," "Torah," and "Tohra." These variations may be influenced by regional accents, dialects, and language differences. Additionally, the spelling of the name may change depending on the individual's preference or personal choice. Despite the different spellings and pronunciations, the name "Tora" typically retains its recognizable sound and origin.

Famous people with the last name Tora

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Tora is Tora Berger, a retired Norwegian biathlete who competed in the Winter Olympics and won multiple World Championship medals. Another notable figure is Tora Sudiro, an Indonesian actor and comedian known for his appearances in numerous films and television shows. Additionally, Tora Augestad is a renowned Norwegian soprano singer who has gained international acclaim for her performances in opera and classical music. These individuals have each made significant contributions to their respective fields and have cemented the Tora name in the annals of history.

Genealogical research on the last name Tora

The last name Tora is of Spanish origin and is derived from the personal name "Toro," meaning bull in Spanish. It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was strong, brave, or aggressive. The surname Tora can be found in various regions of Spain, particularly in the northern provinces such as Asturias, Galicia, and Cantabria. Genealogical research on the surname Tora has revealed that it is not a very common surname, with a limited number of individuals bearing this name. However, those with the surname Tora may be able to trace their ancestry back to Spain through historical records such as church registers, census data, and family documents.

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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