Last Name Vaz-pires

The surname Vaz Pires is of Portuguese origin. The name Vaz is derived from the given name Vasco, which means "crow" in Portuguese. Pires is a common Portuguese surname that is derived from the Latin personal name Petrus, meaning "rock" or "stone". Over time, the two names have been combined to form the compound surname Vaz Pires.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Vaz-pires

The meaning and origin of the last name Vaz-pires

The surname Vaz Pires is of Portuguese origin and is a combination of two distinct surnames. "Vaz" is a Portuguese surname derived from the given name "Vasco," which means "crow" or "raven." It is a common surname in Portugal and may have originated from a name passed down through generations to signify a familial connection to the name Vasco. "Pires" is another popular Portuguese surname, believed to have its origins in the ancient Visigothic personal name "Pelagius." The combination of Vaz and Pires suggests a lineage with connections to both names, perhaps indicating a significant ancestral background or specific familial ties. Overall, the surname Vaz Pires likely signifies a historic lineage rooted in Portuguese culture and tradition.

Geographical distribution of the last name Vaz-pires

The last name Vaz Pires is primarily found in Portugal, with a significant concentration in the northern region of the country. Specifically, the surname is most common in the districts of Viana do Castelo, Braga, and Porto. It is believed that the origins of the Vaz Pires surname can be traced back to the medieval period, originating from the personal name Vasco, meaning "crow" or "raven" in Portuguese. As such, individuals with the last name Vaz Pires can often trace their ancestry to noble or aristocratic families in Portugal. While the surname may also be found in other parts of the world where Portuguese emigration has occurred, such as Brazil and the United States, its highest concentration and historical significance remain firmly rooted in its homeland of Portugal.

Variants and spellings of the last name Vaz-pires

The last name Vaz Pires may have several variations and spellings, including Vaz-Pires, Vas Pires, Vas-Pires, Vaz Peres, Vazpires, Vaspirez, and Vazperez. These variations may be due to regional differences in pronunciation and spelling, as well as changes that may have occurred over time as the name was passed down through generations. It is also possible that different branches of the family may have adopted slightly different spellings for various reasons. Despite these variations, the last name Vaz Pires likely has a common origin and history, and individuals with any of these spellings can trace their lineage back to the same family roots.

Famous people with the last name Vaz-pires

Nuno Vaz Pires is a well-known Portuguese actor, best known for his roles in popular television series and films. He has been praised for his versatile acting skills and compelling performances on screen. In addition to his successful acting career, Nuno Vaz Pires is also a respected voiceover artist, lending his voice to various animated characters in Portuguese dubs of international films. His talent and dedication have earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim in the entertainment industry. With his passion for storytelling and commitment to his craft, Nuno Vaz Pires continues to impress audiences with his memorable performances and charisma on screen.

Genealogical research on the last name Vaz-pires

The surname Vaz Pires is of Portuguese origin, with "Vaz" likely being a patronymic surname derived from the given name "Vasco," meaning "crow" in Portuguese. The lineage of the Vaz Pires family may be traced back to ancient noble families of Portugal, known for their involvement in politics, military, and other influential positions throughout history. Through genealogical research, it is possible to uncover the various branches and descendants of the Vaz Pires family, tracing their lineage through generations and exploring the connections to other prominent families in Portugal. This research may reveal fascinating stories and insights into the family's history, traditions, and contributions to Portuguese society over the centuries. The study of the Vaz Pires surname can provide a deeper understanding of Portuguese genealogy and cultural heritage.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "vaz-pires"
• 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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends