Last Name Vida

The surname "Vida" has multiple origins across various cultures. In Spanish and Portuguese, it means "life," derived from the Latin word "vita." It may have been given to a child born at a time when life was particularly hard or to one who had been near death but had recovered. In Slavic countries like Croatia, Bosnia, and Serbia, Vida is a female first name and can also function as a surname. The origin of this form of the name in these regions is unclear, but it may be related to the Old Slavonic word for "grace" or "gift." In German-speaking areas, Vida could be a shortened version of the female given name Viktoria (Victoria) or the male given name Viktor (Victor). As with many surnames, its exact origin may vary based on regional history and naming practices.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Vida

The meaning and origin of the last name Vida

The surname Vida is of Latin origin, derived from the word "vita" which means "life." This name was initially given to individuals who had been miraculously spared from death or who lived exceptionally long lives. Over time, it became a hereditary surname in various regions such as Spain and Portugal, where naming practices were influenced by Latin traditions. The name Vida is also common among Sephardic Jewish families, many of whom were forced to convert or flee during the Spanish Inquisition and carried their names with them to other parts of Europe and the Americas. Today, the surname Vida can be found worldwide, reflecting its long history and diverse cultural background.

Geographical distribution of the last name Vida

The surname Vida has a significant presence across various regions worldwide, reflecting historical migrations and cultural interconnections. In Europe, it is most prevalent in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Romania, and the former Yugoslavia, indicating its potential origin from these countries. The name can also be found in Russia and Ukraine, where it may have been adopted through assimilation of other ethnic groups or during the Middle Ages. In Latin America, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico, Vida is a common surname due to the Spanish and Portuguese colonization. In the United States, the name has a strong concentration among Hispanics and Portuguese Americans, with notable populations in California, Texas, and Florida. Lastly, in African countries such as Angola and Mozambique, the name also appears, likely due to Portuguese colonial influence. The global dispersal of the surname Vida showcases the intertwined history of cultures across continents.

Variants and spellings of the last name Vida

The surname Vida has various spellings and variations across different regions and languages. Some common spelling variations include Vidaa, Vidah, Vide, Vidae, and Vidae, which are derived from the original Spanish or Portuguese name. In other cultures, the same name may have different spellings due to transliteration or linguistic adaptations. For example, in Russian, it might be written as Vidaa, while in some Eastern European languages, it could be spelled as Vidai, Vidaja, or Videj. Additionally, there are regional variations such as the Italian Vita or the Scottish Gaelic Mac a' Ghobhainn, both of which have distinct meanings and origins but share a similar sound with the Spanish/Portuguese surname Vida.

Famous people with the last name Vida

The Vida surname has been associated with notable figures in various fields. In literature, Pablo Neruda, a Chilean poet and diplomat who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971, bears this name. His work, characterized by sensuality and politically engaged themes, remains influential to this day. Another prominent figure is Maria Elena Vida, an American author known for her poetry collections such as "Motherless Daughters" and "The Sugaring Season". In the realm of cinema, Gina Rodriguez, a talented actress from the United States, gained prominence for her role in the television series "Jane the Virgin", earning a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy. Additionally, brothers Paolo and Vito Roccepa, better known as the Vida Brothers, are renowned for their achievements in the world of bodybuilding. The Vida name continues to be associated with diverse talents across different disciplines.

Genealogical research on the last name Vida

The surname Vida originates from various regions, primarily Spain and Portugal. In Spain, it is derived from the Latin 'vita' meaning 'life', indicating a person who was lively or active. In Portugal, it can be traced back to the Visigothic period where it denoted someone related to Guidon or Gundoin, an early Germanic personal name composed of the elements "wudu" (wood) and "hin" (warrior). The Vida family migrated to various countries during historical events such as the Reconquista in Spain and the Portuguese Age of Discoveries. Notable individuals bearing this surname include Spanish poet Garcilaso de la Vega, who wrote poetry in both Spanish and Latin, and Portuguese mathematician Pedro Nunes de Vida. Genealogical research can be furthered by examining historical records, censuses, and family trees online or through archives.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Vida"
• 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 : 13 June 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends