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Last Name Zaqui

What is the origin of the last name Zaqui?

The surname Zaqui, like many Spanish and Portuguese surnames, has its origins in medieval Iberia. It is most likely a toponymic surname, meaning it was originally a name derived from the place where the original bearer lived. In this case, "Zaqui" could potentially be derived from a lost place-name that is no longer found in modern Iberian geography. The exact origin of the name is not definitively known, as many historical records have been lost or destroyed over time. However, it is common for surnames to change due to various factors such as spelling errors, regional dialects, and migration.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zaqui

The meaning and origin of the last name Zaqui

The surname Zaqui originates from Spain, specifically the Basque region, and is a variant of the original name "Zacarias" or "Sakarri" which means "God of the host" in Hebrew. Over time, this name evolved into the more common Basque form "Zakurri," eventually developing into the modern spelling of Zaqui due to phonetic changes and regional variations. The name spread beyond the Basque region as Basques migrated and settled in various parts of the world, including South America where it is widely found today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zaqui

The surname Zaqui has its origins primarily in Mexico and is most prevalent in the states of Puebla, Oaxaca, and Veracruz. Historically, it's believed to have roots in the indigenous Nahuatl language, with variations such as "Zácatl" or "Zacate" meaning "grass." While predominantly found in Mexico, the surname Zaqui has also been recorded in other countries with significant Mexican populations, such as the United States and Spain. In the United States, a considerable number of individuals with this last name reside in states like California, Texas, and Illinois, reflecting historical migration patterns from Mexico to these regions. The distribution of the surname Zaqui, therefore, is predominantly concentrated in Mexico but also includes other countries with a significant Mexican diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zaqui

The surname Zaqui has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, and historical influences. Some common variants include Zacui, Zaquy, and Zakuy. These variations may arise from slight misspellings, phonetic adaptations, or changes in the spelling conventions over time. Additionally, some individuals of Spanish or Mexican descent with the surname Zaqui may also find their name listed as Xaqui, a variation derived from the Nahuatl language, which was spoken by the Aztecs before the arrival of the Spanish. It's important to note that these variations and spellings can be found across different regions and cultures, reflecting the surname's diverse origins and adaptations throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Zaqui

The Zaqui family is relatively uncommon in the realm of global public figures, but it does boast a few notable individuals with this surname. One of them is Ricardo Zaqui (b. 1937), a Brazilian composer and conductor who has made significant contributions to contemporary Brazilian music. In Mexico, Luis Zaqui (b. 1958) is a renowned archaeologist known for his work on Mayan sites such as Palenque and Yaxchilán. Lastly, in the world of sports, Marcos Antonio Zaqui (b. 1963), a Brazilian former professional footballer, is remembered for his time with Sao Paulo FC, winning two national championships and being named the club's greatest foreign player of all time. These individuals, hailing from Brazil and Mexico, have left their marks in diverse fields: music, archaeology, and sports.

Genealogical research on the last name Zaqui

The surname Zaqui originates from Spain and is found primarily among the Sephardic Jewish community, who were expelled from the country in 1492. The name is believed to have its roots in the medieval Hebrew language and may be a variation of the name Isaac or Jacob. Some researchers suggest that it could also be derived from the Arabic word "al-zaki," meaning the pure one. In Mexico, the name Zaqui is often associated with indigenous populations, particularly those in the state of Puebla, due to its similarity to the Nahuatl word "tzacuil," which means priest or wise man. The surname Zaqui can also be found in other Spanish-speaking countries such as Colombia, Peru, and Argentina. Notable figures with the last name Zaqui include Mexican painter Rufino Tamayo and Colombian politician Guillermo Zapata.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 27 July 2025

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