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Last Name Trindade

What is the origin of the last name Trindade?

The surname "Trindade" is of Portuguese origin. It derives from the word "trindade," which means "Trinity" in Portuguese. This name was often given to children baptized on the Christian holy day of the Holy Trinity, which falls on the Sunday after Pentecost. In Portuguese-speaking countries, it has been a common surname for many centuries. It is also sometimes found as a variation or diminutive form in other Portuguese-speaking regions, such as Brazil and the Azores.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Trindade

The meaning and origin of the last name Trindade

The surname Trindade is a Portuguese patronymic name derived from the given name "Trindade," which means "Trinity" in English. The name originates from the Christian belief in the Holy Trinity, a fundamental dogma in Christianity that God exists as three persons - the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. As Portugal is predominantly a Roman Catholic country, the surname Trindade became common among Portuguese families who held this religious belief. Over time, due to migration and colonization, the name spread to various regions across the globe, particularly in countries with large Portuguese populations such as Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, and Goa (India). Today, the surname Trindade can be found among Portuguese descendants worldwide.

Geographical distribution of the last name Trindade

The last name Trindade is predominantly distributed in Portugal and its former colonies, particularly Brazil, where it is one of the most common surnames. Originating from the Portuguese word for "Trinity," this name has been passed down through generations since the Middle Ages in Portugal. In Brazil, it is primarily found in the southeastern states of Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, areas that have historically had strong Portuguese influence. Additionally, individuals with the surname Trindade can be found in other parts of South America, as well as in communities of Brazilian descent worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. The distribution of this name provides a fascinating glimpse into the historic migration patterns and cultural connections between Portugal and its former colonies.

Variants and spellings of the last name Trindade

The surname Trindade possesses several variants and spellings due to regional differences and historical influences. Some common variations include Trindade, Trindat, Trindada, Trinta Dias, Trinidade, Trindati, Trinand, Trindatas, and Trinhada. These variations may originate from different geographical locations within Portugal, where the name is most commonly found, or from individuals who have emigrated and adapted the spelling to suit their new location. In Brazil, a country with a large Portuguese-speaking population, the surname may also be encountered as Trindade de Barros, Trindade Lima, or Trindade Costa, depending on additional family names that have been incorporated. The variations serve as an interesting reflection of genealogical history and cultural assimilation among individuals carrying the name Trindade.

Famous people with the last name Trindade

Notable individuals with the surname Trindade include:

1. Pedro Joaquim Trindade (1827-1891), a Brazilian lawyer and politician, considered the "Father of Modern Brazilian Law." He served as the Minister of Justice and Public Instruction under Emperor Pedro II.

2. Maria Luiza Viotti Trindade (1950-2020), a renowned Brazilian jurist who served as a justice on the Superior Court of Justice, the highest federal court in Brazil. She was the first woman to hold this position.

3. Rafael Trindade (born 1978), a Brazilian professional footballer who played for clubs like Corinthians and Atletico Mineiro. He is known for his role in Brazil's victory at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 1997.

4. José Eduardo dos Santos Trindade (born 1958), a Mozambican politician who served as the President of Mozambique from 2005 to 2015. Prior to his presidency, he held various positions in the government and was widely considered one of Africa's most powerful leaders.

5. Fábio Trindade (born 1978), a Brazilian musician, composer, and producer who is part of the band Skank, known for their hits like "Rap da Felicidade" and "Mulheres."

Genealogical research on the last name Trindade

The surname Trindade originates from Portugal, specifically the region of Trás-os-Montes, which translates to "beyond the mountains." The name is a geographical reference, referring to someone who resided beyond the mountain ranges. The first recorded individual with the name was Estêvão Trindade, who lived in the 14th century. Over time, the family expanded and migrated, most notably to Brazil during the Portuguese colonial period. Notable figures bearing the surname include Bartolomeu dos Santos Trindade, a Brazilian writer, journalist, and politician, and José Francisco de Portugal Trindade Coelho, a prominent figure in the Brazilian War of Independence. The Trindade lineage is also present in other Portuguese-speaking countries such as Angola and Mozambique, having been dispersed through colonial expansion.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 12 June 2025

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