NomOrigine Background

Last Name Veiga

What is the origin of the last name Veiga?

The last name Veiga is of Galician and Portuguese origin. It is derived from the Galician word "veiga" or the Portuguese word "veiga," which means "meadow." It is a locational surname typically given to someone who lived near or worked in a meadow or grassy field.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Veiga

The meaning and origin of the last name Veiga

The surname Veiga has both Spanish and Portuguese origins. It is believed to have derived from the Latin word "vicus," meaning "village" or "hamlet." Thus, the name Veiga typically denotes someone who originated from or was associated with a small rural community. This surname is most commonly found in Galicia, a region in northwestern Spain, and in the northern part of Portugal.

The surname Veiga carries historical importance, as it can be traced back to medieval times. During the Middle Ages, Galicia and northern Portugal were primarily populated by peasants, farmers, and shepherds, who dwelled in small villages and hamlets scattered across the countryside. Over time, the surname Veiga became associated with the families who hailed from these rural communities, emphasizing their connection to the agricultural sector and their rural way of life. Today, individuals with the surname Veiga can be found across various countries, often continuing to preserve their ancestral ties to the village or origins of their ancestors.

Geographical distribution of the last name Veiga

The last name Veiga, predominantly of Portuguese origin, has a notable geographical distribution. It is most concentrated in Portugal, particularly in the regions of Braga, Porto, and Vila Real. Portugal's historical connection with Brazil has also led to a significant presence of the Veiga surname in this South American country, especially in the states of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Minas Gerais. Spanish-speaking regions have also seen a dispersion of this name, particularly in Galicia and Asturias in northwest Spain. Additionally, the Veiga surname can be found in other countries with a Portuguese or Spanish-speaking heritage, including the United States, Venezuela, Argentina, and Uruguay. Over time, some individuals with the last name Veiga may have migrated to other parts of the world, leading to a more diverse geographic distribution. Overall, the Veiga surname remains most prevalent in Portugal and areas with historical ties to Portugal and Spain.

Variants and spellings of the last name Veiga

The last name Veiga has several variations and spellings depending on geographical regions and cultural influences. In Portuguese-speaking countries, it is commonly spelled Veiga, which is the most widely recognized spelling. However, due to historical migrations and influences from other languages, alternate spellings and variations have emerged. In Spain, the name may appear as Vega, which is a more hispanicized version that maintains the same pronunciation. Additionally, individuals with Veiga as their last name may come across the spelling variants of Veigas or Viega, seen in Galicia, Portugal, and some countries in South America. These variations reflect the adaptability of surnames across different linguistic backgrounds and serve as a reminder of the diverse origins and migrations of the Veiga family name throughout history. Although the spelling may differ, these variations symbolize the shared heritage and ancestral connections shared by individuals with the last name Veiga.

Famous people with the last name Veiga

One famous person with the last name Veiga is Jorge Veiga. Born in Brazil in 1928, Jorge Veiga was a renowned samba singer known for his powerful voice and energetic performances. He became one of the most influential figures in the Brazilian music scene during the 1950s and 1960s, earning the nickname "The King of Brazilian Samba." Veiga was known for his ability to captivate audiences with his charismatic stage presence and his soulful interpretations of samba classics. He recorded many successful albums, including "Gala de Samba," which remains a popular record among samba enthusiasts. Veiga's contributions to Brazilian music have cemented his status as a legend in the genre, and his songs continue to be celebrated and performed today.

Genealogical research on the last name Veiga

The last name Veiga has an intriguing genealogical history. Originally of Spanish origin, it is believed to have derived from the Galician word "veiga" meaning "meadow" or "field." The first references to individuals with the Veiga surname can be traced back to medieval Spain and Portugal. Over time, this lineage branched out and spread across the Iberian Peninsula and its colonies, particularly Brazil. The surname can be found among individuals with Portuguese, Spanish, or Brazilian heritage. Genealogical research indicates that the Veiga family name has been passed down through countless generations, carrying with it a sense of pride and cultural heritage. Through diligent research and exploration of archival records, one may unearth the stories and ancestral connections that have shaped the lives of those bearing the Veiga surname, providing a deeper understanding of their roots and heritage.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names

Veiga coutinho (Last name)

surnames > veiga-coutinho

The last name Veiga Coutinho is of Portuguese origin. Veiga is a Galician and Portuguese surname, derived from the Latin word "vinea" meaning "vineyard" or "vine", while Coutinho i...

Veillon (Last name)

surnames > veillon

The surname Veillon is primarily of French origin. It derives from the Old French word "veille" meaning "watch" or "vigil." Over time, it evolved into the modern spelling, Veillon....

Veintemilla (Last name)

surnames > veintemilla

The last name Veintemilla is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Spanish words "veinte" meaning twenty and "milla" meaning thousand. It is believed to have originated as a ni...

Veir (Last name)

surnames > veir

The last name Veir is of English origin. It is derived from the Old French word "ver," meaning "green," and was used as a nickname for someone who wore green clothing or had green ...

Veizaga (Last name)

surnames > veizaga

The surname Veizaga is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the word "vega," which means meadow or fertile lowland. This surname likely originates from a person who lived near or ...