NomOrigine Background

Last Name Viray

What is the origin of the last name Viray?

The last name Viray is of Spanish origin. It is believed to be derived from the word "Virrey," which means viceroy in Spanish. Viceroys were colonial governors in Spain's colonies, and the name Viray likely originated as a surname for someone in a position of authority or power. Over time, the name spread to the Philippines and is now a common Filipino surname.

origin of the last name Viray

Learn more about the origin of the last name Viray

The meaning and origin of the last name Viray

The surname Viray is of Filipino origin and is commonly found in the Philippines. The name is believed to be derived from the word "biray," which means "to cut" or "to divide" in the Ilocano language. It is possible that the surname Viray originally referred to someone who worked as a carpenter or a woodcutter. Over time, the surname has been passed down through generations and is now used by various families across the Philippines. The name Viray may also have variations in spelling such as Vira or Virai. Today, individuals with the surname Viray can be found in different parts of the world due to migration and globalization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Viray

The last name Viray is predominantly found in the Philippines, particularly in the regions of Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and Metro Manila. It is a common surname among Filipino families and is believed to have originated from Spanish colonial times. The name Viray can also be found in smaller numbers in other countries with a significant Filipino diaspora, such as the United States, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. In these countries, individuals with the last name Viray have likely immigrated for reasons such as work or family reunification. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Viray reflects the historical ties between the Philippines and Spain, as well as the patterns of international migration among Filipino populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Viray

The last name Viray can also be spelled as Virai, Biray, Virey, Vierai, or Virrey. Other variations include Vira, Viri, and Virei. Sometimes, the name may be spelled with an accent mark as Viráy or Víray. Additionally, this surname may be mistakenly written as Virag, given its similar pronunciation. Despite these variations in spelling, the origin of the last name Viray remains the same. It is a Filipino surname that is derived from the Spanish word "Virrey," meaning viceroy, which was a title given to the governor of a country or province under the Spanish crown. Overall, the variations and spellings of the last name Viray can be numerous and diverse.

Famous people with the last name Viray

One of the most famous people with the last name Viray is Paolo Viray, a Filipino actor and television personality known for his roles in various dramas and reality shows. He has gained popularity for his acting skills and charming personality, making him a household name in the entertainment industry in the Philippines. Another well-known figure with the last name Viray is Rafael Viray, a successful entrepreneur and CEO of a leading technology company. He is known for his innovative ideas and business acumen, leading his company to great success and recognition in the tech world. Both Paolo and Rafael Viray have made significant contributions in their respective fields, solidifying the Viray name as one of prominence and excellence.

Genealogical research on the last name Viray

The last name Viray is a common surname in the Philippines, primarily found in the regions of Ilocos and Pangasinan. The name Viray is of Spanish origin and is believed to have been introduced during the Spanish colonial period. It is derived from the Old Spanish word "virrey," meaning viceroy or ruler. The Viray surname is often associated with families who held positions of authority or land ownership during the Spanish era, indicating a noble lineage. Genealogical research on the Viray name can reveal a rich history of early settlers in the Philippines and their connections to Spanish colonial administration. Today, individuals bearing the Viray surname can be found throughout the Philippines and in overseas Filipino communities, maintaining a link to their ancestral heritage and history.

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: