Last Name Valez

Learn more about the origin of the last name Valez

The meaning and origin of the last name Valez

The surname Valez is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the word "valle," which means "valley" in English. The surname likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived in or near a valley. It could also have been used as a locational surname for someone who came from a place named Valle or lived in a valley. Surnames like Valez were often used to identify individuals based on their geographical or occupational characteristics in medieval times. Over the centuries, the surname Valez may have evolved in spelling and pronunciation as families migrated to different regions or countries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Valez

The last name Valez is most commonly found in Latin America, particularly in countries such as Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela. It is also present in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries. In the United States, the name Valez is less common but can be found in communities with Hispanic populations, such as in California, Texas, and Florida. Additionally, there are scattered occurrences of the last name Valez in other parts of the world due to migration patterns and diaspora communities. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Valez is mainly concentrated in Latin America and Spanish-speaking countries, with lesser but noticeable presence in the United States and other regions with Hispanic populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Valez

The variations and spellings of the last name Valez include Vallez, Vales, Valles, Vallesz, Valesz, and Valle. These variations may stem from regional dialects, migration, or transcription errors. The surname Valez may also be spelled with a "z" at the end to reflect a different pronunciation or historical spelling convention. Overall, the variations of the last name Valez demonstrate the fluidity of language and the evolution of surnames over time.

Famous people with the last name Valez

Some of the most famous people with the last name Valez include Lupe Velez, a Mexican actress known for her work in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s. Another notable figure is Ramón Valdés, a Mexican actor best known for his role as Don Ramón in the popular television series "El Chavo del Ocho." Additionally, there is José Valez, a Spanish singer who rose to fame in the 1970s with hits such as "No por favor" and "De color de rosa." These individuals have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and have left a lasting legacy in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Valez

The genealogical research on the last name Valez shows that it is of Spanish origin and is a variant of the surname "Velasquez." The earliest known records of individuals with the surname Valez date back to the 16th century in Spain, particularly in regions such as Andalusia and Castile. Over time, some branches of the Valez family migrated to other Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America, such as Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina. The surname Valez is believed to have originated from the Spanish word "vela," meaning sail or candle, and the suffix "-ez," indicating "son of." Research indicates that individuals with the last name Valez may have ancestral connections to seafaring or religious professions in their family history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Valez"
• 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 April 2025